You’ll Fall in Love With Swimming at This Waterfall Hiding Along a Breathtaking Washington Trail

When summer rolls around, Washingtonians inevitably look forward to emerging from their winter burrows and making the most of the warmer, less rainy weather. While the Evergreen State has plenty of beautiful beaches, if you ask me, there's not better way to spend a warm day than hiking out for a swim at a waterfall in Washington. Of all the options we are blessed to have, I think the best place to do so is Keekwulee Falls, which is located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Getting to many of Washington's best known waterfalls requires real effort, but Keekwulee is relatively family-friendly. The hike is only about four miles, out and back, but it can be moderately challenging thanks to 1,100 feet or so of elevation gain. Best of all, it's just an hour outside of Seattle, making it easy to reach for many and putting it within a day trip for most of the state's population. Download AllTrails Plus to ensure you have navigation assistance even when you don't have a cell signal.

The trail's accessibility also means that it's a popular hiking destination, so don't be surprised if you find yourself sharing the path with several other groups. Even with a little extra hiking traffic, there's plenty of nature to go around for all to appreciate - and that's even before you reach the gorgeous Keekwulee Falls.

Beneath the towering conifers, probe the understory for native birds. Depending on the time of year you visit, thick vegetation - including salmonberries, ferns, and wildflowers - borders the trail. This area is also home to numerous mushroom species. Though foraging is prohibited, short of taking a course, IDing these in their natural environment is a great way to hone your skills for later expeditions in places where such activities are permitted.

Make sure you bring the right gear for your trek. Part of what makes the Keekwulee Trail fun is that it involves a couple of spots of careful clambering. You'll get to the other side and feel like a pro!

When you finally reach Keekwulee Falls, pause for lunch before getting ready to swim. Years of water erosion have carved divots into the rock, creating smooth pools perfect for swimming.

Just make sure to bring dry clothes for when you're finished swimming! Even in the dead of summer, the water at Keekwulee is very cold - refreshing after a long hike but uncomfortable on your descent to the trailhead.

For us Washingtonians, it's also good news to hear that leashed pups are allowed on the trail to Keekwulee. Just make sure to treat them like a fellow hiker and ensure that your pup is also adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

There's no denying that the Evergreen State boasts countless beautiful lakes and beaches. That said, many people's summer bucket list includes finding where to swim at a waterfall in Washington. An hour outside Seattle, Keekwulee Falls is the best place to live out your summertime dream, promising a relatively easy hike that's perfect for the whole family!