Devil's Punchbowl Bridge
Discover Devil's Punchbowl, a breathtaking natural swimming hole with shockingly clear turquoise waters in Olympic National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy cool water
Devil's Punchbowl Bridge
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy cool water
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Devil's Punchbowl, a breathtaking natural swimming hole with shockingly clear turquoise waters in Olympic National Park.
"The water is so blue & clear it's breathtaking. Very peaceful place."
🎯 Find the Magic!
When you reach the tunnel, go LEFT to discover the breathtaking Devil's Punchbowl.
🩱 Swim Ready
Pack your swimsuit and towel; the water is cool and refreshing, perfect for a summer dip!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Devil's Punchbowl
Lake Crescent, Olympic National Park
Experience the shockingly clear, cool, and refreshing turquoise waters of this stunning natural swimming spot.
The Bridge Jump
Devil's Punchbowl
For the adventurous, take a leap from the bridge or surrounding rocks into the inviting blue water.
Spruce Railroad Trail
Lake Crescent
Enjoy a scenic hike along this trail, which offers access to the Punchbowl and a unique tunnel experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find the Magic!
When you reach the tunnel, go LEFT to discover the breathtaking Devil's Punchbowl.
🩱 Swim Ready
Pack your swimsuit and towel; the water is cool and refreshing, perfect for a summer dip!
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear sensible shoes for the hike; the path gets narrower and more rugged closer to the water.
🔦 Tunnel Trek
Bring a flashlight for the tunnel section of the hike back.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find the Magic!
When you reach the tunnel, go LEFT to discover the breathtaking Devil's Punchbowl.
🩱 Swim Ready
Pack your swimsuit and towel; the water is cool and refreshing, perfect for a summer dip!
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear sensible shoes for the hike; the path gets narrower and more rugged closer to the water.
🔦 Tunnel Trek
Bring a flashlight for the tunnel section of the hike back.
🚗 Parking Patience
Arrive early for better parking access, as spots fill up quickly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtakingly clear, cool, and beautiful turquoise waters of Devil's Punchbowl, calling it a peaceful and refreshing natural swimming spot. The hike is generally considered enjoyable, with many appreciating the opportunity to jump from the bridge. However, some note that parking can be difficult, and the path beyond the bridge becomes more challenging.
"The Devil's Punchbowl was a beautiful hike and the water is so blue & clear it's breathtaking. Very peaceful place. The water was cool & refreshing. There is a toilet but it is just a hole with a seat. Bring sanitizer cause it might not have any. Definitely worth the travel to get there. Could've sat by the waters edge all day with my feet in the water!!"
Kara “KamKam” Mazzarisi
"Really beautiful part of lake Cresent. Clear blue/turquoise waters. Some people were jumping off the cliff into the water it was awesome. There a hike to get here maybe a mile or 1.5 miles. When you get to the tunnel go left to see the magic!"
Jorge Galindo
"Great place for a quick hike & a beautiful swimming spot. Bring your swimsuit & jump off the bridge or the rock formation! Such a beautiful place and so many friendly people hiking."
Hannah Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Port Angeles, head towards Lake Crescent. The most common access point is the Spruce Railroad Trailhead. Take the trail to the left when you reach the tunnel to find Devil's Punchbowl. The hike is approximately 1-1.5 miles one way.
Devil's Punchbowl is located within Olympic National Park, specifically along the shores of Lake Crescent.
The most recommended access is via the Spruce Railroad Trail. Turn left before the tunnel to reach the Punchbowl.
No, cell signal is generally unavailable past the trailhead, so download any necessary maps beforehand.
The hike is about 1 to 1.5 miles each way from the Spruce Railroad Trailhead, totaling around 2-3 miles roundtrip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No specific ticket is required for Devil's Punchbowl itself, but you will need a valid Olympic National Park entrance pass.
While the hike is free, you'll need an Olympic National Park pass. Some sources mention a small fee for specific walks at Devil's Bridge in Wales, but this is not applicable to the Washington location.
Devil's Punchbowl is accessible during daylight hours as part of Olympic National Park. The park itself does not have strict closing times for outdoor areas.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at Devil's Punchbowl, but be aware the water is cool and refreshing.
The main trail to the bridge is generally suitable for families and most ages. However, accessing the rocks and water's edge can become narrower and more challenging.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The water is described as shockingly clear, blue, and cool, making it a beautiful and refreshing spot for a swim.
Yes, many visitors enjoy jumping off the bridge or nearby rock formations into the water. +1
There is a basic toilet facility available, but it's described as a hole with a seat and may not always have supplies like hand sanitizer.
The path to the bridge is paved or covered in fine pea gravel. Beyond the bridge, a dirt path circles back, requiring manual climbing and walking, not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
Devil's Punchbowl is part of the Lake Crescent area in Olympic National Park, which also features the Spruce Railroad Trail and Sol Duc Falls.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant turquoise water from the bridge, the surrounding moss-covered rocks, and the unique tunnel. Early morning light offers the best conditions.
Drone usage may be restricted within Olympic National Park. Always check current park regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning provides the best light and fewer crowds, leading to more serene and clear shots of the water.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the water's color.
The contrast between the vibrant blue water and the lush green surroundings, along with the bridge itself, makes for striking images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families: Arrive early to snag a parking spot and avoid the midday rush. The path beyond the bridge can be trickier, so keep younger children close. Consider bringing a waterproof bag for electronics and valuables if you plan on swimming.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Hiking Tips: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the terrain can vary. Bring a camera to capture the vibrant colors and scenic vistas.
If you're looking for a longer exploration, consider combining this visit with other trails in the Lake Crescent area. 📸 Photographers
Early morning light is ideal for capturing the water's clarity and vibrant hues without harsh shadows. Photography Advice: A wide-angle lens will help capture the scale of the Punchbowl and its surroundings. Consider a polarizing filter to deepen the blues of the water and reduce glare.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Devil's Punchbowl
Key Takeaway: While the main path is accessible, venturing closer to the water's edge requires more agility. Always wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of the terrain.
Pro Tip: If you plan to loop back, consider using the tunnel. It's a unique feature of the trail, but bringing a flashlight is highly recommended for visibility.
Swimming and Cliff Jumping
For the more adventurous, jumping off the bridge or the surrounding rock formations into the deep pool below is a common and exhilarating activity.
Safety First: While the water is clear, it's essential to assess the depth and any submerged obstacles before jumping. Local advice suggests being aware of where others are jumping from and to.
Navigating the Area and Amenities
Regarding amenities, there is a basic restroom facility available, though it's described as rudimentary.
Key Considerations: Plan for limited facilities and no cell signal. Being prepared with essentials like water, snacks, and a flashlight will greatly enhance your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit