Day Use Site 4: Molalla River Swimming

Visitors will find plenty of sunshine at Day Use Site 4. As you drive up the watershed, signs marking the site number as well as specific restrictions regarding day use can be found mounted in the trees. The numbers referenced here match the numbers on the signs along the river. 

Here, large flat rocks for spreading out your towels and blowing up rafts make this a good swimming hole for a crew of people or a couple of families. Deep water with river-level rocks offer the opportunity for easy cannonballs.  

With a short easy access trail of roughly 20 feet, this spot makes a quick transition from hot car to cold water. This location is probably better suited to decent swimmers as there is primarily deep water here, in addition to a current that will swing swimmers downstream. With that said, there are shallower wading areas available for the younger set.  

This location doesn't see a lot of shade, so picnics here will be in full sun. The entire watershed is limited in its development. All visitors will need to pack out their trash and be mindful to Leave No Trace.  Even cigarette butts and fruit rinds can ruin the experience for the next group of swimmers. To protect this fragile environment, take care to leave the location better than you found it. 

For other nearby swimming options, check out:

• Day Use Site 2: Molalla River Swimming
• Day Use Site 11: Molalla River Swimming