If You Didn't Know About These 10 Swimming Holes In Washington, They're A Must Visit
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Jessica Wick
Author
There is nothing better than checking out the swimming holes in Washington state during hot weather. It feels amazing to cool off with a refreshing dip in a local natural pond, lake, or river. These 10 Washington swimming holes aren’t as publicized as some of the others, but they’re just as fun and refreshing.
1. From the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, head to the quiet community of Mazama and take a dip in the Methow River. After you cool off, grab a tasty meal at this Methow River restaurant.
Methow River, Washington 98846, USA
2. Go swimming in the Chehalis River at the beautiful Rainbow Falls State Park.
Rainbow Falls State Park, 633 Leudinghaus Rd, Chehalis, WA 98532, USA
Head down State Route 6 from Chehalis and you’ll find the quiet state park with a river running through it, which tumbles over small rocky falls into a peaceful pool. This is one of the best waterfall swimming holes in Washington, so check it out on a hot day.
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3. You’ll find Banks Lake, pictured here, north of Wenatchee near Coulee City. There’s a nice lakeside crescent beach cove perfect for swimming.
Banks Lake, Washington, USA
From Wenatchee, take RT 97 North, then RT 2 East to Coulee City at the south end of the lake. The lake is close to the highway, but it’s hidden from view because of the nearby cliffs. Add this lake to your list of Washington swimming holes.
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4. Take a refreshing swim in the Teanaway River in between Ellensburg and Cle Elum.
Dickey Creek, Washington 98922, USA
From Ellensburg, take I-90 West to Cle Elum, then take RT 970 East for about 9 miles. Turn left on Teanaway Road and follow it 10 miles to the gated "Dickey Creek." Hike up the gated road to where the trail veers right and head down to the river.
5. Swim at Madrona Park Beach in Seattle.
Madrona Park, 853 Lake Washington Blvd, Seattle, WA 98122, USA
Madrona Park is located on the waterfront of Lake Washington, but it’s a little more secluded than some of the other nearby swimming spots. There’s a wooded hillside that slopes down to a small grassy beach and swimming area. Learn more about Madrona Park, and then check it out!
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6. Swim laps through Lake Goodwin in Stanwood.
Located in Snohomish County, Lake Goodwin has a community park that sits right on the lake. There are several spots along the lake with great swimming access. Check out more about Lake Goodwin, and then grab your swimsuit and give it a try!
7. Twanoh State Park at Hood Canal is considered one of the warmest swimming spots in the state.
Twanoh State Park, 12190 WA-106, Union, WA 98592, USA
The clear green water and pebbly beach backed by forested hills make it a perfect place to cool off on a hot day. Learn more about Twanoh, and then go cool off there!
8. Dip your toes in the Touchet River at Lewis & Clark Trail State Park in Dayton.
Lewis & Clark Trail State Park, 36149 US-12, Dayton, WA 99328, USA
Lewis and Clark Trail State Park is a 37-acre camping park with a serene swimming area and 1,333 feet of freshwater shoreline. Learn more about this park and one of the best swimming holes in Washington, and then plan your next visit there.
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9. Enjoy a little island getaway and visit Lake Florence on Anderson Island.
Florence Lake, Anderson Island, WA 98303, USA
Take a scenic ferry ride from Steilacoom and head to Lowell Johnson Park, where you’ll find a lake with a floating pontoon for high flips and jumps and another dock for diving. There’s even a shallow section perfect for little ones. Read more about this Washington swimming hole, and then take the whole family for an unforgettable day.
10. Wade through Icicle Creek near Leavenworth.
Ida Creek Campground, NF-7600, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA
The Ida Creek Campground is a remote area on the banks of Icicle Creek. The campground doesn’t offer many amenities, but it’s uncrowded and perfect for relaxing after a swim. Learn more about this campground, and then enjoy a secluded dip in the creek.
Need more leads on the best swimming holes in Washington state? Grab your swimsuit and then check out these 12 swimming places in Washington that you’ll enjoy:
Here Are 12 Washington Swimming Holes That Will Make Your Summer Epic
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More to Explore
best swimming holes in Washington
What are some hidden beaches in Washington?
There are multiple spots you should add to your list of hidden beaches in Washington. Take, for instance:
- At Shi Shi Beach, the rock formations jutting out of the sea are a sight to behold.
- A few miles up the beach, there’s Point of the Arches with over 30 sea stacks, small caves, and tide pools. It’s the perfect place for a fun day of beach exploring with the family.
- Rialto Beach is another breathtaking beach. Located in Olympic National Park, the coastline is covered in driftwood and has many lovely tide pools to explore.
What are some great lakes in Washington?
There are some amazing lakes in Washington that you will want to visit.
- Lake Chelan is a popular destination for good reason. There are water activities galore, such as boating, fishing, and water sports. And there is also a lot to do in the town of Chelan for visitors of all ages. So, grab the whole family and pay this lake town a visit.
- For a quiet and incredibly scenic lake, head to Lake Quinault on the Olympic Peninsula. There is stunning scenery and fantastic hiking in the neighboring Quinault Rainforest.