COWLITZ RIVER

About the Cowlitz River Swimming Spot

Tucked deep within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, east of Packwood, Washington, this unofficial swimming hole on the Cowlitz River offers one of the Pacific Northwest's most rewarding natural escapes. The river winds through a cathedral of old-growth Douglas fir and western red cedar, their towering silhouettes framing a sky that feels impossibly blue on a clear summer day. Getting here requires a half-mile hike over uneven forest terrain, so lace up proper footwear and embrace the approach — the rustling canopy, the earthy scent of damp moss, and the growing sound of rushing water all build anticipation for what lies ahead.

The Setting and Landscape

When you arrive, the Cowlitz River opens up into a generous natural swimming hole sculpted by centuries of current and stone. The water runs crystal clear, revealing smooth river rock and shifting gravel beds beneath the surface. The surrounding forest presses close on both banks, keeping the atmosphere cool and sheltered even on warm summer afternoons. Dragonflies skim the water's edge, and if you're patient and quiet, you may spot osprey or great blue herons working the river upstream. The Cowlitz River holds deep cultural significance — it is the lifeblood of the Cowlitz people, who have called this watershed home for thousands of years, and that history lends the place a quiet, grounding reverence that goes beyond its natural beauty.

Swimming the Cowlitz

The swimming hole is refreshingly cold even at the height of summer, fed by snowmelt from the flanks of Mount Rainier to the north. You'll feel that chill the moment you wade in — bracing and clean, the kind of cold that makes you gasp and then laugh. Depths vary across the hole, with shallower areas near the banks that are comfortable for wading and deeper pockets mid-channel where stronger swimmers can fully submerge. The water's clarity lets you watch your own feet on the riverbed. Because this is an unsanctioned, undeveloped site with no facilities on-site, visitors should come self-sufficient — bring your own water, pack out everything you bring in, and exercise caution when assessing current strength, which can vary with seasonal flows.

Plan Your Visit

The best time to visit is June through August, when warm temperatures make the cold water feel like a gift rather than a shock. Early September brings a spectacular bonus: the surrounding forest begins its turn toward amber and gold, making the hike in as rewarding as the swim itself. Several campgrounds operate nearby within Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount Rainier National Park, making this an ideal stop on a multi-day wilderness trip. There is no fee to access this swimming area. The nearest towns are Packwood and Randle, both offering fuel, supplies, and a chance to pick up last-minute gear before heading into the forest. Yakima lies further afield to the east, a larger hub for restocking on longer trips. Leave no trace, respect the land's cultural history, and this wild stretch of the Cowlitz will stay beautiful for every visitor who follows.