The Best Swimming Holes in Northwestern Washington
Washington’s climate tends to be on the wet side, especially if you live in Western Washington. The trope of Seattle’s never ending rain is somewhat accurate. In the summer, however, the temperature can get up to 78 degrees in Western Washington and 88 degrees in Eastern Washington. As the days are getting longer in Washington the warmth of Spring is on everyone’s minds and as soon as the weatherman says it’s over 50 degrees, Washingtonians whip their shorts out. When shedding off your layers isn’t enough to cool you off, swimming is the next best option. Look no further for aquatic plans this season; here are the best swimming holes in Washington.
Lake Cushman: This body of water is technically a reservoir, not a lake. The water feels silky to swim in and is generally warm compared to other Washington waters. The entirety of Lake Cushman is a swimming hole paradise. There are various beaches, rope swings, and elevated areas to jump into the water from. One place in particular is Big Rock, a cliff jumping boulder offering heights 10-17 feet above the water. This is a hotspot for people interested in a bit more adventure during their swimming hole experience. Drunk college students frequent this area a lot so be aware to avoid this place if you’re seeking a quiet outing.
Lake Crescent: If you’re looking for a more peaceful swimming hole, Lake Crescent, the second largest lake in Washington, is a perfect fit for all ages. The northshore area of the lake has a dock sprouting out from Fairholme Campground that makes for a perfect instagram picture. You’ll want to take a picture of Lake Crescent regardless if it ends up on instagram or not because it's absolutely stunning. The land surrounding the lake gradually converges towards it, almost like the land knows how aesthetically pleasing the lake is to look at. The vividly blue lake water seems otherworldly and it's so clear, you can see up to 60 feet in front of you. Since there's a lack of nitrogen, phytoplankton aren’t present so aquatic life is mostly limited to Beardslee and Crescenti trout-breeds of trout that only inhabit Crescent Lake. The water is icy cold even in the summer months so it would be wise to bring a wetsuit along.
Snoqualmie River: The South Fork of the Snoqualmie River on Exit 38 offers activities for an assortment of people before washing sweat off in the swimming hole. Downhill trails and five different crags offer escapades for rock climbers and mountain bikers. White water rapids upstream render options for white water rafting as well. The section of the river on Exit 38 is slow and lazy so an afternoon of winding down is very doable.
Falls Creek at Lazy Bear Falls: There isn’t a whole lot of room to swim around in the falls but the unique features of the area make for a great swim hole. Ample vegetation cushions the landscape with ferns and moss draping over almost every area you can see. The falls have enough water pressure to take a soap-less shower. Pools upstream temp the enthusiastic explorer to get up close and personal with the ferns since there isn’t a definite trail after the main falls.
Methow River at Twisp: The Methow River is a neat body of water that branches from the North Cascades and feeds into the Columbia River. In Twisp, the clear blue water is a centerpiece of the small town. The swimming hole is family and dog friendly as it’s a lowkey spot ideal for lounging. When you’ve been swimming so much your fingers are pruny, experience the quaint feeling of downtown Twisp. Visit its farmers market or one of its local restaurants to tie up the day.
https://seasonsyear.com/USA/Washington
Book: Swimming Holes of Washington by Anna Katz & Shane Robinson