Natural swimming hole
Devil's Punchbowl, Lake Crescent
Lake · Washington
About this swimming hole
A deep, cliff-walled cove on Lake Crescent reached by the 2.2-mile Spruce Railroad Trail, famous for ledge-jumping into the lake's impossibly clear water. The pedestrian bridge above the cove is the launch point for thrill-seekers; swimmers get the same crystal water without the jump.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 50-55 in summer |
| Depth | deep natural pool; jumps up to ~50 ft reported |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | NPS pass or entry fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | daylight hours |
| Parking | Spruce Railroad trailhead; hike 2.2 miles one way |
| Amenities | vault toilet |
| County | Clallam County |
| Nearest town | Port Angeles |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; cliff jumping is dangerous; water is extremely cold; the lake is nearly 1,000 ft deep in places |
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Devil's Punchbowl, Lake Crescent?
Yes — Devil's Punchbowl, Lake Crescent is listed as a natural swimming spot in Washington. Reported water temperature: 50-55 in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; cliff jumping is dangerous; water is extremely cold; the lake is nearly 1,000 ft deep in places. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Devil's Punchbowl, Lake Crescent require reservations?
No reservations are required at Devil's Punchbowl, Lake Crescent based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Devil's Punchbowl, Lake Crescent?
Reported fee info: NPS pass or entry fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Devil's Punchbowl, Lake Crescent?
The best season is typically July-September.