Skykomish River, Big Eddy Park

Located 2.5 miles up river from Gold Bar, the deep waters, slow moving current, and sandy beaches at Big Eddy Park make for one of the Skykomish River's best swimming holes. Specifically, under the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad bridge, two pools have been carved out to create safe waters for even the youngest of kids. Note, however, that the turquoise waters of the Skykomish River are fed from the high peaks of the Cascades and can be surprisingly cold year-round.

If you are looking for some additional swimming hole and cliff jumping fun, keep driving toward Stevens Pass 3.5 miles past Index to Eagle Falls where cool, deep pools and granite slabs lie below this turbulent cascade.