Hike-in Required
No
ADA accessible
No
Guided tours
No
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Rocky Brook Falls is a lesser-known waterfall along the Olympic Peninsula. Part of a large hydroelectric plant in the area, this massive waterfall is popular among locals. Rocky Brook Falls is classified as a horsetail form, which means that the falling water maintains some contact with the rock, as opposed to a free-falling waterfall.

To reach the falls, cross the street from the parking area and walk a few hundred yards past the hydroelectric building. The walk is very easy, and it quickly brings you to the base of the waterfalls. Bring a lunch with you, and enjoy a swim in the pool at the base. Depending on the time of day and the season, you may be joined by other picnickers and swimmers. Note that flow fluctuations may occur without notice.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Relatively unknown spot. Huge waterfall.

Cons

Hard to find. Can be busy.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Features

Waterfalls

Location

Nearby Adventures

Hood Canal + Eastern Olympic Peninsula, Washington
Hood Canal + Eastern Olympic Peninsula, Washington
Olympic National Forest - Hood Canal

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

08/02/2017
Rocky Brook Falls is the perfect way to escape the current heatwave in Washington. It's literally a hidden gem right off of the road. I went up with a couple of friends in attempt to stay cool during the day and this was the ultimate success.

The water, to my surprise, wasn't abnormally cold and very swimmable. We spent several hours floating around and swimming below the falls. We arrived at about 11 AM and the falls weren't very crowded. However, more people showed up around 3 or 4 PM so if you want the falls more to yourself I would recommend getting there earlier rather than later. This is a great spot to swim, eat lunch, and even climb around the base of the falls (a few people were even cliff jumping). Just be aware that not every part of the swimming pool is deep and the rocks are covered with algae so be very careful not to slip!

At this point I've decided that Rocky Brook Falls feels like a little piece of Hawaii in Washington (except the water isn't as warm). It's relatively hidden and is a great swimming spot under a 200 ft waterfall. There aren't necessarily many swimming holes in Washington that have as much going for them as this one. The mist from the falls kept the whole little area about 15 degrees cooler than the actual temperature, creating a perfect little escape from the heat wave.
07/20/2016
Rocky Brook Falls
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