Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork - Forks & Knives
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Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork

4.9
·89 reviews·, United States

A breathtaking natural pool carved by a river, famous for thrilling cliff jumps into icy, clear waters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds & heat

CrowdLow
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Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork - Forks & Knives

Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds & heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking natural pool carved by a river, famous for thrilling cliff jumps into icy, clear waters.

4.9
(89 reviews)

"The jump off the cliff was mind blowing! Definitely visiting again for next summer."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥶 Brace for Cold Water

Snowmelt means frigid temps, even on hot days! It's a shock but invigorating.

🚗 Parking Pains

Parking is notoriously difficult. Arrive early or be prepared for a walk.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Thrilling Cliff Jump

The Thrilling Cliff Jump

Main pool

Take the plunge from the iconic cliff into the icy, crystal-clear waters below. An unforgettable adrenaline rush!

Crystal-Clear Waters

Crystal-Clear Waters

The Punchbowl

Marvel at the stunning clarity of the water, a refreshing sight even if you're not swimming.

Scenic River Views

Scenic River Views

Along the riverbanks

Capture incredible photos and videos of the rushing river and unique rock formations.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Chill

The water at Devil's Punchbowl is famously frigid, even in summer, as it's fed by snowmelt. Be prepared for a bracing dip! Parking can also be a challenge, so arriving early is key to a smoother visit. Reddit

Safety First, Fun Second

While cliff jumping is a major draw, the rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. Assess conditions carefully before jumping and be aware of varying pool depths. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the crowds & heat
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer people, more peace
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Arlene | sahm + lifestyle Devil’s Punchbowl in Crested Butte, Colorado lived uo to the hype! The water was crystal clear & the hike was a challenging. We saw a lot of ATV’s in the area if that is your thing 💯 . . . #crestedbutte #coloradohiddengems #devilspunchbowl #coloradowaterfalls #coloradolife #coloradoadventures #coloradohikes #thingstodoincolorado
@travelingtimmons
44.9K likes • 517.6K views

🥶 Brace for Cold Water

Snowmelt means frigid temps, even on hot days! It's a shock but invigorating. TikTokReddit

🚗 Parking Pains

Parking is notoriously difficult. Arrive early or be prepared for a walk. Reddit

Thank you for anyone that recommended devils punchbowl! Keep the recommendations coming! #DevilsPunchbowl #Oregon #OregonCoast #PCH #OregonRoadTrip #RV #RVLife #LincolnCity #CaliforniaRoadTrip #California #RoadTrip #AmericanRoadTrip #Travel #TravelCouple
@sianalouise
18.6K likes • 214K views
The top places I visited in Oregon 🌳. Devils Punchbowl, Cannon Beach, The wreck of Peter Iredale, and Column of Astoria. All close to eachother ! #pnw #oregoncoast #oregoncheck #cannonbeach #astoriaoregon #devilspunchbowl #pacificnorthwest
@vagabondvanessa
13.7K likes • 233.7K views

👟 Watch Your Step

Rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear sturdy shoes. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Perfect spot for stunning river photos and videos. TikTok+1

Devils punch bowl! The Devil’s Punchbowl has become an iconic natural landmark of the Menomonie area. Though Menomonie is rich with natural beauty, the Devil’s Punchbowl is a real gem, especially to first time visitors. The rock formation at the Devil’s Punchbowl is over 500 million years old. From the depositing of ancient sea sand to the glacial erosion that carved out it’s now magnificent shap...
@rretzlof
12.6K likes • 200.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥶 Brace for Cold Water

Snowmelt means frigid temps, even on hot days! It's a shock but invigorating. TikTokReddit

🚗 Parking Pains

Parking is notoriously difficult. Arrive early or be prepared for a walk. Reddit

👟 Watch Your Step

Rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear sturdy shoes. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Perfect spot for stunning river photos and videos. TikTok+1

🏊‍♀️ Deeper & Shallower Pools

Multiple pools offer varying depths for different comfort levels. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(89 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the exhilarating cliff jumping and the stunning, crystal-clear waters of Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork. It's a fantastic spot for photos and a refreshing, albeit very cold, dip. Some find parking challenging and the water's frigid temperature a shock, but most agree it's a must-visit natural wonder.

"It’s fantastic!!! The jump off the cliff was mind blowing! Definitely visiting again for next summer."

Guadalupe Alvarez

"Great little swimming/jumping hole!"

Kris Allee

"Beautiful! It was too cold to swim when we were there but still cool to check out."

Denycia Haley

What People Like

Exhilarating cliff jumps
Crystal-clear water
Beautiful scenery

What People Dislike

Very cold water
Difficult parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork is typically accessed via a short hike from a parking area. The exact location can vary, but it's often found near Aspen, Colorado. Be prepared for potentially limited parking, especially during peak season. TikTokReddit

While the main attraction is well-known, finding convenient parking can be the trickiest part. Follow local signage and be ready for a short walk if the main lot is full. Reddit

Driving is the most common method. Consider carpooling to ease parking congestion. Some visitors also mention ATVs in the general area, but access to the punchbowl itself is usually on foot. TikTok

Public transport options directly to Devil's Punchbowl are limited. It's best to plan for a personal vehicle or rideshare, keeping in mind parking challenges. Reddit

The hike is generally short but can be steep and rocky in places. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, especially if conditions are wet. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork is typically a natural attraction and does not require tickets for entry. However, parking may have associated fees or restrictions. Reddit

As a natural landmark, Devil's Punchbowl doesn't have set operating hours. It's generally accessible during daylight hours, but it's wise to visit when there's sufficient light for safety. Reddit

There is usually no direct entrance fee for Devil's Punchbowl itself. Any fees would likely be related to parking in the vicinity. Reddit

While technically accessible, visiting in winter might be challenging due to snow and ice, making the rocks slippery and the water even colder. Summer and early fall are generally the most popular and safest times. Reddit

No reservations are needed for Devil's Punchbowl as it's a natural, open-access area. Popularity means it can get crowded, so early arrival is recommended. Reddit

🎫 🏊‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Yes, it's a popular spot for swimming and cliff jumping! However, be warned: the water is extremely cold due to snowmelt, often around 34-50°F (1-10°C). TikTokReddit

The water is consistently very cold, as it's fed by snowmelt. Expect temperatures around 34-50°F (1-10°C), making it a bracing experience. TikTokReddit

Cliff jumping is a major draw, but safety is paramount. Assess the water depth and your own abilities. The rocks can be slippery, so proceed with caution. Reddit

Yes, beyond the main punchbowl, there are other sections with varying depths, some shallower and more suitable for those who prefer not to swim or jump. Reddit

The area features interesting rock formations carved by the rushing waters over time, making it a great spot for photography. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the dramatic cliff jumps, the crystal-clear turquoise water, and the unique rock formations carved by the river. The surrounding natural beauty also offers stunning shots. TikTok+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the punchbowl and surrounding landscape. A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended if you plan to get close to the water or participate in activities. TikTok

The main viewing areas are along the riverbanks and near the cliff jumping spots. Explore slightly upstream or downstream for different perspectives of the water and rocks. TikTok

Drone usage regulations can vary by location and park. Always check local rules and regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance. TikTok

Morning light offers softer shadows and fewer crowds. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour lighting, but be mindful of slippery rocks as the day cools. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork offers a unique experience for families, but with caveats. While the main punchbowl is geared towards adventurous swimmers and jumpers, there are shallower, sectioned-off pools downstream that can be more suitable for children or those who prefer not to swim in the deep, cold water. Reddit The stunning natural scenery also makes it a great spot for a picnic and some light exploration. However, parents should be extra vigilant due to the slippery rocks and the extremely cold water, which can be a shock even for adults. TikTokReddit Ensure children are supervised at all times and consider bringing life vests for added safety if they plan to enter the water. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers as it's a natural attraction with no entrance fee. Reddit The primary costs will be transportation and potentially parking fees. Packing your own food and drinks is highly recommended to avoid expensive on-site purchases. Reddit The main draw – the natural beauty and the thrill of the punchbowl – is free to experience. TikTokReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork a visually rewarding location. The dramatic cliff jumps, the vibrant, clear water, and the sculpted rock formations offer endless photographic opportunities. TikTok+1 Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the scene and a polarizing filter to enhance the water's color and reduce glare. TikTok If you plan to get close to the water, a waterproof camera or a protective case for your phone is a wise investment. TikTok The best light is often found in the early morning or late afternoon, but always be mindful of the slippery conditions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of the Jump

Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork is renowned for its exhilarating cliff jumping opportunities. Daredevils leap from heights of 20-25 feet into the icy depths below. Reddit It's a popular spot for thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush. However, it's crucial to assess the conditions before jumping. The rocks surrounding the punchbowl can be slippery, especially after rain, and the water, while clear, is extremely cold due to its snowmelt origins. TikTokReddit Always prioritize safety and know your limits before attempting any jumps. Reddit

Understanding the 'Punchbowl' Phenomenon

The 'punchbowl' effect is created by the powerful, erosive force of the Roaring Fork River. Over centuries, the water has carved out a deep, circular pool in the rock. TikTok This natural phenomenon, combined with the surrounding rugged landscape, makes Devil's Punchbowl a visually striking destination. The rock formations themselves are ancient, with some dating back over 500 million years, a testament to the geological history of the region. TikTok The clarity of the water is a key feature, allowing you to see the bottom of the pool, though the frigid temperatures are a constant reminder of its glacial origins. Reddit

Navigating Parking and Access

One of the most frequently mentioned challenges for visitors to Devil's Punchbowl Roaring Fork is parking. Reddit The area can become very crowded, especially during peak summer months, leading to limited parking availability. Many visitors recommend arriving early in the morning or on weekdays to secure a spot. Reddit If the main parking area is full, be prepared for a potentially longer walk from alternative parking locations. Reddit The hike to the punchbowl itself is generally short but can involve uneven terrain, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. TikTok

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