Who's been to Opal Creek?

[Kraklen]

I just found out about it. I've been looking for good swimming holes.

[classof56]

1. I was there about 15 years ago or so.

Hope it hasn't changed, because it is an incomparably beautiful area. There was a strong attempt to save the old growth timber in the forest--I think it was successful. Certainly hope so. I didn't go swimming and so don't know about swimming holes. The trip is worth it, though, just for the sheer beauty of the place.

[0rganism]

2. Incomparably beautiful, and a helluva hike

If your goal is swimming holes, there are easier ones to reach. Some back-trails by Horsetail Falls in the gorge lead to nice wade-able streams and swimmable pools in waterfall basins.

If you want to see some incredible old-growth and a snapshot of what most of western Oregon looked like before Big Timber turned it into a tree farm, then Opal Creek is the place for you.

[MissB]

3. You have to go.

It is simply gorgeous. I could spend all day at Opal pool. Jawbone Flats is pretty nice too- I've stayed at one of the cabins before. If you go, be sure to pause in Jawbone Flats long enough to read the history of Opal Creek.

Take enough time to hike around the area too. It really is an all-day adventure. You have to hike in from the gate, which is a bit of a jaunt.

[stubtoe]

4. The Little North Fork

has some very nice swimming holes as well, although they can be mighty popular on weekends.

[funflower]

5. It's beautiful and incredibly clean, clear water.

Yep. It's got good swimming spots. Silver Falls State Park also has some good places for wading and swimming, although I don't think the water is as spectacularly clear as in Opal Creek.