Devil’s Punchbowl at Lake Crescent: Is it Worth a Visit?


Wondering if Devil’s Punchbowl at Lake Crescent is worth a visit?

I’ve kayaked here from Log Cabin Resort in late May and hiked in on Labor Day weekend.

My summer visit felt busy and a bit raucous, which is expected on a holiday weekend. Despite the crowds, the lake views were incredible, and there were plenty of great spots to swim beyond the cove near the bridge.

In this guide, I’ll review the pros and cons of visiting Devil’s Punchbowl in Olympic National Park, share things to do here, and provide tips on what to bring for a better experience if you decide it’s worth adding to your itinerary.

Let’s go!

Devils Punch Bowl, Lake Crescent, and a vibrant summer scene with people swimming in the clear blue water and others standing on a bridge overlooking the lake. The backdrop features forested mountains under a bright blue sky.
Lake Crescent’s Devils Punch Bowl on Labor Day weekend

Quick Guide: Devils Punch Bowl Lake Crescent

  • Hike Length: 2.4 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 137 feet
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Location: Devil’s Punchbowl is located on the northern shore of Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park, accessible via the Spruce Railroad trailhead off East Beach Road.
  • Entrance Pass: All visitors must have a Standard Pass, Annual Pass, or America the Beautiful Pass. 
  • Parking Lot: Parking is available at the trailhead, but the lot fills up quickly on busy weekends. Overflow parking lines the road, and I noticed drivers struggling to maneuver in and out during peak times.
  • Amenities: A pit toilet and garbage can is available at the trailhead. Bring a trash bag and a human waste bag to leave no trace, as no facilities are near the swimming hole.
  • Accessibility: Requires walking on a paved trail or kayaking or boating in. The short hike to the swimming hole from the main trail is on a dirt path with rocks.
  • Safety Considerations: No lifeguards are on duty, and motorized boats pass through the waters near the bridge. I witnessed a small boat drive under the bridge and into the cove, creating a potentially hazardous situation for swimmers.
  • Dog-Friendly: Unlike most Olympic National Park trails, dogs are welcome but must be leashed.   
  • Crowd Factor: Highly popular in summer, with many young people and families. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on summer and holiday weekends.
  • Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for fewer crowds.

People enjoying Devils Punch Bowl at Lake Crescent, with swimmers in the deep blue water and others gathered on a wooden bridge and rocky cliff. A person in red stands poised on the mossy rock edge, preparing to jump.

Pros & Cons of Visiting Devils Punch Bowl

Pros:

  • Stunning lake and mountain views.
  • A refreshing place to swim.
  • A variety of activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking, and cliff jumping.
  • Unique features include an old train tunnel along the trail near the swimming hole.

Cons:

  • Overcrowded during peak summer months.
  • No facilities at the swimming cove (restrooms, trash bins, etc).
  • Parking can be hectic during busy weekends.
  • Slick and steep rocks pose safety risks.

A busy parking area near the Spruce Railroad Trailhead at Lake Crescent, lined with cars and SUVs under a canopy of tall, green trees. Groups of people walk along the road, some carrying backpacks, suggesting a day of outdoor exploration and activities.
Spruce Railroad Trailhead parking lot

Things to Do at Devil’s Punchbowl in WA

Keep reading to learn all the fun outdoor activities you can do here.

Hiking & Biking

The hike along the Spruce Railroad Trail is relatively easy and scenic, with peek-a-boo lake views, impressive big-leaf maple trees, and shaded forest sections. 

It’s a paved trail until you break off toward Devil’s Punchbowl, where you’ll briefly hike on a rocky dirt path along the lake. 

I wore my Tevas on my hike to the swimming hole, which helped me navigate the rocks lining the water. However, I saw some people wearing flip-flops and Crocs.

A group of people, including children and adults, walking and biking on the Spruce Railroad Trail, a paved path surrounded by dense, lush green trees on the. A cheerful boy in the foreground smiles and gives a thumbs-up while holding a walking stick, adding a lively touch to the peaceful forest setting.

If you plan to hike further on the Spruce Railroad Trail, a continuation of the Olympic Discovery Trail, I recommend wearing sturdy shoes and packing sandals for the punchbowl. 

The trail is an excellent choice for bikers. Its paved path and gentle inclines make it suitable for riders of all skill levels. All the bikers I encountered were respectful and communicated well, calling out when passing.

As a hiker, I made sure to stay to the right to comply with trail etiquette. 

The old railroad tunnel near the off-shoot trail to the punchbowl is a highlight, adding a sense of history and a fun experience for both hikers and bikers.

An old railroad tunnel along the Spruce Railroad Trail, framed by wooden beams and nestled into a rocky hillside covered with moss and greenery. A small group of people, including children, walks into the dark tunnel, while a dirt path and a hiking trail sign are visible to the left.
Take the path to the left marked by the sign.

Swimming

Swimming at Devil’s Punchbowl is the main attraction. 

The iconic bridge and rocky cove, with depths reaching 200 feet, are the most photographed spots. You’ll encounter this area shortly after breaking off from the main Spruce Railroad Trail.

People enjoying a summer day on a bridge at Devil's Punch Bowl, WA, with a young man in red swim trunks walking barefoot toward the camera. Others lean over the railing, gazing at the water below, while forested mountains and a calm lake create a scenic backdrop.

Once you cross the bridge, the path offers numerous places to jump into the cold lake water. 

You can enter the lake from anywhere along the shoreline. Flat, rocky areas line the lake, providing small, intimate spots where you can relax for a few hours.

People enjoying a sunny day at Lake Crescent, with a woman sitting on a rocky shore in a blue swimsuit while others paddle kayaks and stand-up paddleboards nearby. A sailboat glides across the calm water, surrounded by lush, forested mountains under a clear blue sky.

People were scattered along the shoreline, enjoying the water. I even noticed a small tent pitched by a group between the narrow trail and the lakeshore.

For my preference, the best place to swim is a swimming hole off the path farther down the path, farthest away from the bridge. It’s removed from the biggest crowds, making it calmer and offering even better lake views. 

A peaceful view of Lake Crescent, framed by trees and bushes, with a woman in a wide-brimmed hat and floral cover-up standing at the water's edge. The calm lake reflects the surrounding forested mountains under a clear blue sky, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Keep in mind that the lake water is undeniably chilly. A woman shrieked after jumping in, though most people handled the temperature just fine. 

Be prepared for a refreshing shock if you’re sensitive to cold water!

Cliff Jumping

Many people, including young kids, jump into the water from the bridge. But the more daring cliff jump into the swimming hole, which is thrilling, yes, but not without risks!

People have died cliff-jumping into the water here.

The steep rock you climb to reach the highest jump-off point is dangerous, with slick surfaces that make it easy to slip. My Tevas gave me some traction, but I still slipped a little on the wet rocks. 

A rugged and steep rocky cliff surrounded by dense greenery, with a person standing near the top, gazing down. The textured rock face is dotted with small plants and bushes, blending into the lush forest scenery.

Carefully assess the risks before deciding to climb the tallest rock to jump. And know that if you do, you’ll likely have an audience.

I watched as a young man stood on the cliff for what felt like an eternity, contemplating his jump. Everyone watched in suspense until he finally did it, with some recording him on their phones.

A tall rocky cliff above Devil’s Punchbowl at Lake Crescent, covered in moss and surrounded by dense trees. A person stands at the edge, preparing to jump into the deep blue water below. The tranquil lake and lush greenery create a dramatic yet serene backdrop.

I didn’t think he would do it because he was up there for so long. He definitely earned his cheers from the crowd!

For a less intimidating jump, head beyond the bridge to another rock cliff that faces the lake. This spot has calmer vibes and better lake and mountain views, making it a great alternative if the main area feels too intense.

Lake Crescent Views

The views from Devil’s Punchbowl and the surrounding areas are breathtaking. 

A group of people gathered on a rocky edge overlooking Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park, with two women in swimsuits standing at the water's edge and two others chatting and smiling nearby. The scene is framed by the clear blue lake and forested mountains under a bright sky, capturing the relaxed and scenic atmosphere.

The backdrop of deep blue water framed by the forested Olympic Mountains is stunning. 

I’ve been to this lake countless times, and I’ll never tire of seeing the contrast of clear teal water along the rocky lake shore.

Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Kayaking to Devil’s Punchbowl is a fantastic way to experience this attraction.

My husband and I love staying at the nearby Log Cabin Resort, a perfect spot to rent or launch a kayak, even if you’re not staying there. One late May weekend, we rented a double-seated kayak and paddled over to the bridge to watch the cliff jumpers in action.

During my late August trip, I noticed kayaks tied up along the shoreline, which shows this is a popular alternative to hiking.

Stand-up paddleboarding and traditional boating are also great options for reaching this popular swimming and gathering area.

A scenic view of Lake Crescent with people enjoying various water activities, including stand-up paddling, swimming, and sailing on a small boat. The lake is surrounded by forested mountains under a bright blue sky, creating a vibrant and inviting summer atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit & Seasonal Differences

  • Summer (June-August): Peak season with the largest crowds. The vibe is lively, at times raucous, with families, teenagers, and young adults enjoying the water. Parking can be challenging.
  • Fall (September-October): A quieter time with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for hikers. Fall foliage on bigleaf maple trees adds additional beauty to the scene.
  • Spring (March-May): Similar to fall, with fewer crowds and plenty of parking. The weather can be unpredictable, but the trail is less congested.
  • Winter (November-February): Not ideal for swimming, but the trail is peaceful and offers unique photo opportunities with snow-capped peaks.

Things to Bring for a Better Experience

  • Sturdy Shoes: The rocks are slick, and good traction is essential. Some wore flip-flops in late summer and seemed fine, but I recommend hiking sandals or sneakers. 
  • Towels & Layers: The water is cold, so you’ll want to dry off and warm up quickly.
  • Snacks & Water: Pack enough food and hydration.
  • Trash Bags: Sadly, I saw beer cans and snack wrappers left behind. Please pack out everything you bring!
  • Human Waste Bag: There are no restrooms or vault toilets at the swimming hole. Bring a blue bag and leave no trace if you plan to stay a while.
People relaxing along the rocky shoreline of Lake Crescent, with some sitting near their belongings and others swimming in the clear blue water. The scene is framed by lush greenery and forested mountains under a sunny blue sky, creating a peaceful and inviting atmosphere.

Nearby Attractions Around Lake Crescent

If you’re planning a trip to Devil’s Punchbowl, consider adding these nearby stops to your itinerary:

Lake Crescent Destinations & Trails

  • Log Cabin Resort: One of my favorite places to stay in Port Angeles! The resort rents kayaks or paddle boats. They also have a restaurant for meals and drinks.
  • East Beach: This beach is down the road from the punchbowl. It’s another excellent swimming hole and one of my favorite places to watch the sunset.
  • Marymere Falls Trail: A short hike through a gorgeous forest to a waterfall with two viewing platforms.
  • Mount Storm King Trail: The ropes to the Storm King summit weren’t as hairy as I thought they’d be, but you don’t have to climb them to get incredible lake views.
  • Moments in Time Trail: A quick rainforest-like loop near Lake Crescent Lodge, perfect for those seeking a leisurely stroll.

Highway 112 Attractions

  • Crescent Beach: I visited the punchbowl while staying at Crescent Beach RV Park, a beach destination with incredible views and only twenty minutes away.
  • Salt Creek: My favorite place to camp on the Olympic Peninsula with many different coastlines to explore and go tide-pooling.

Port Angeles activities are plentiful and just a short drive from Lake Crescent.

A cheerful light-colored dog stands on a rocky lakeshore at Lake Crescent, with a person paddleboarding in the calm water in the background. The lake is surrounded by forested mountains and framed by leafy branches, creating a serene outdoor setting.

Wrap-Up: Is Devil’s Punchbowl at Lake Crescent Worth Seeing?

Yes, Devil’s Punchbowl is worth visiting if you’re looking for a fun place to swim in Olympic National Park. This unique destination features a swimming hole, a bridge and rocks for jumping, and stunning lake views.

However, it’s a lively gathering spot in summer, not ideal for those seeking solitude. For a quieter experience, visit in the early morning or during the shoulder seasons.

Even if you don’t plan to swim or cliff-jump, hiking and kayaking to Devil’s Punchbowl are fun Lake Crescent activities that can be enjoyed year-round.


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