The Washougal River

In the summertime in Portland, you're always hearing people talk about going swimming at the river. We finally went to the Washougal, all the way to the end of it, past where the road stops, and we found out what all the fuss is about.


Well, the water is crystal clear and when it's scorching outside it is the ultimate refreshing temp.


There are perfect little chairs in the rocks for sitting and sipping beers or juices. And in the river there are natural chairs in the limestone so you can sit in the middle of the river and take it easy just like you were home in your lazy boy.


Note my cool new life vest. I barely need it now that my swimming lessons have totally kicked in.


We took Uncle Nicky here when he came through. He is the ideal river enthusiast.


On one end is a private peaceful family pool for us kiddies, but if you walk up river a bit you get to the real party, teenager style. There are people jumping off every available rock and cliff, rope swings and natural pools, swimming and sunning and music and mayhem.


And all along, these winding roads of river, shallow and warm.


Little kids play in them like nature's water slides. This is the apex of summer Oregon fun right here in this river bed. The jam. For serious.


The beauty of the limestone will knock your tevas off. Up next, The Jumps.