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After dropping 25 feet, the narrow granite gorge of Eagle Falls on the South Fork of the Skykomish River offers one of Washington state's many scenic riverside oases, and a shady respite on hot summer days. Unfortuantely this area has suffered from abuse and vandalism and has also been the site of multiple deaths and rescues of swimmers due to the freezing cold glacial-fed waters and strong currents formed by the constricted gorge. Given the dangers here visitors should think twice before considering a swim in this river.
The Forest Service has considered closing access to this sensitive location due to excessive trampling of plants, large amounts of garbage, cans and glass bottles, and graffiti. Check this video for an example of the significant and totally inappropriate challenges facing Eagle Falls. The Forest Service simply does not have the staff or the funding to attend to these issues. If you want to continue enjoying this area, pack out all garbage, cans and bottles, and dispose of it properly. Using this area responsibly will increase the chance that people can continue to enjoy it in the future.
Logistics + Planning
Preferable season(s)
Summer
Congestion
Moderate
Parking Pass
Not Required
Pros
Beautiful stretch of river easily accessible.
Cons
Many people have died swimming here due to freezing glacial-fed water. Very cold water and always in shade.
This place is amazing to visit. Beautiful clear water and a good swimming hole to cool off during the summer. The water is very cold, but if you take it slow it warms up.
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