I spent the last day of summer at a lovely swim spot on the Washougal River.
Naked Falls is a series of pools and small waterfalls on a clear, cool stretch of water. There are secluded gravelly areas downstream for those who are willing to scramble over logs and rocks for a bit.
We found a good spot away from the most crowded area. By climbing a bit, you can be away from people. But even at its most crowded, and on Labor Day, I estimated there were fewer than 80 people in this large rocky area.
I had a great time swimming, jumping into the various pools, and enjoying snacks and drinks. It was my friend’s birthday and he served as the videographer, which is a valued role in any group. I climbed onto a rock and posed as a merman.
We watched teenagers jump into the water from crazy-looking heights. We got Mexican food in Washougal and discussed cancel culture, depraved reaches of the internet, and appropriateness in comedy.
As we left, the wildfire smoke looked more and more menacing. This was just a hint of what was to come, as fires grew all around the state during the workweek. We felt safe at the time, but that was the last day for at least a week when you could safely be out in forested regions. In fact, right now I am indoors with all windows closed, waiting out the worst air quality in the world at the moment.
This was a good way to end the summer. And I’ll visit many of these places again in the fall to enjoy seeing how they’ve changed.
pseudoisaac 