Hot Springs in Washington: The Complete Guide to Soaking in the Evergreen State
Washington State, in the Pacific Northwest, boasts a bounty of natural wonders. From the majestic peaks of the Cascades to the untamed wilderness of Olympic National Park, the state offers endless opportunities for adventure. But beneath the surface lies another treasure – a network of natural hot springs, inviting weary explorers to soothe their muscles and soak in the tranquility of the wilderness.
Every known hot springs in Washington has been included EXCEPT for Bonneville (closed to the public), Ohanapecosh (not soakable), Doe Bay (not a real hot springs) and Soap Lake (also not a real hot springs).
This is your guide to diving into Washington’s geothermal splendor. Exploring both developed resorts and backcountry havens, catering to every adventurer’s preference. So, pack your swimsuit (or don’t), grab a towel and get ready to discover the magic of Washington’s natural hot springs.
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Volcanic Delights: Hot Springs in the Washington Cascades
Washington’s Cascade Mountains are a hotspot for geothermal activity. Here, you’ll find a cluster of primitive hot springs each offering a unique experience.
Mount Baker Hot Springs
Mount Baker Hot Springs is located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, near Concrete, Washington. There are two natural, rock-lined pools with temperatures varying depending on how close you are to the source and the season.
- Facilities: There are no restrooms, changing rooms or overnight accommodations at Mount Baker Hot Springs. Parking is available at the trailhead.
- Access fee: There is no access fee for Mount Baker Hot Springs.
- Seasonal access restrictions: The road leading to the trailhead can be impassable due to snow in the winter. Always check road and trail conditions before you go.
- Camping: Camping is not allowed at the hot springs themselves, but there are dispersed camping opportunities in the surrounding National Forest.
- Family-friendly: While the short hike to the springs is easy, the lack of facilities and a clothing-optional environment may make it less suitable for young children.
- Clothing-optional: Yes, clothing is optional at Mount Baker Hot Springs.
- Best time of the year to visit: Summer and fall.
- Public lands contact: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
- GPS: 48.8464, -121.6924
- View on Washington hot springs map
Directions:
Getting to Mount Baker Hot Springs requires driving on a rough road. A sedan is not recommended. From Bellingham, Washington, it is about 1 hour and 36 minutes to the hot springs. The drive from Concrete will take about 47 minutes.
From Concrete, WA. follow Burpee Hill Rd, which turns into Baker Lake Rd. Continue on Baker Lake Rd for approximately 11.5 miles. Turn Left onto Forest Road 1130 for another 3.6 miles. Take a slight right onto Forest Road 1144 and go to the parking lot. The trailhead is clearly marked and a short .3-mile hike will bring you to the springs.
Sulfur Warm Springs
Escape the crowds at this undeveloped hot spring with a single pool located about 30 miles east of Darrington, Washington near Mount Baker. The small, natural pool offers a secluded soak surrounded by the beauty of the forest. Be aware that reaching this hot spring requires a moderate hike.
- Facilities: None. This is a primitive hot spring with no restrooms, changing rooms or overnight accommodations.
- Access Fee: None.
- Seasonal access restrictions: The trail is best used from June to November due to potential winter snow. Always check current conditions before heading out. Check trail reports
- Camping: Dispersed camping opportunities may exist in the surrounding National Forest, research regulations beforehand.
- Family-friendly: Potentially for older children who can handle the hike, but consider the lack of facilities and other challenges.
- Clothing-optional: No regulations, privacy is minimal due to the remote location.
- Best time of the year to visit: Summer and fall.
- Public lands contact: Darrington Ranger District
- GPS: 48.2498, -121.1936
- View on Washington hot springs map
Directions: From Seattle, take I-5 N to exit 200 for Arlington. Turn left onto WA-530 E and follow toward Darrington. Turn east at the junction for Forest Road 26 (Suiattle River Road) over the river for 22 miles to the trailhead near Sulfur Creek Campground. Park on the side of the road (not blocking traffic) and not in the campground.
The trail to the hot springs, Sulfur Creek Trail #793, is a moderately difficult 4-mile out-and-back hike. Take the left fork in the trail after the first mile and prepare for a rough scramble the rest of the way to reach the hot pool.
Gamma Hot Springs
Gamma Hot Springs stands out from the rest on this list because it’s a remote, backcountry location deep within the Glacier Peak Wilderness below Gamma Peak. This means it’s not for the faint of heart and requires significant planning and wilderness experience. Finding it requires detailed topographic maps and GPS coordinates. Google Maps won’t get you there! There’s just one small soaking pool, reported to be fairly close to the creek, allowing for natural temperature regulation.
- Facilities: There are no facilities at Gamma Hot Springs. Be prepared to pack everything you need, including a tent, sleeping bag, stove and toilet supplies for a multi-day backpacking trip.
- Access fee: There is no access fee for Gamma Hot Springs, but wilderness permits might be required depending on the regulations of the Glacier Peak Wilderness.
- Seasonal access restrictions: Winter makes the area inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. The most suitable window for reaching Gamma Hot Springs is late summer and early fall when the trails are clear. However, be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather.
- Camping: Camping is permitted in designated areas within the Glacier Peak Wilderness. Always follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.
- Family-friendly: No, the challenging hike and lack of facilities make Gamma Hot Springs unsuitable for children.
- Clothing-optional: Yes, there are no regulations regarding clothing at Gamma Hot Springs and privacy is abundant due to the remote location. If you can actually find Gamma, you can surely enjoy soaking sans swimsuit.
- Best time of the year to visit: The short window between late summer and early fall offers the best chance of encountering clear trails and manageable weather.
- Public lands contact: Glacier Peak Wilderness
- GPS: Option 1: 48.171123, -121.081696
Option 2: 48°09’13.3″N 121°03’47.7″W - View on Washington hot springs map
Directions: Getting to Gamma Hot Springs requires an arduous backpacking trip. The most common route starts at the Suiattle River Road near Darrington, Washington. From there, hikers follow a series of trails for over 30 miles, with significant elevation gain and potential route-finding challenges. This trek is best attempted by experienced backpackers with proper navigation skills and wilderness knowledge. More detailed directions
Note: Due to the demanding nature of reaching Gamma Hot Springs, it is strongly recommended to consult detailed trail guides, maps and experienced backpackers before attempting this adventure.
Scenic Hot Springs
Scenic Hot Springs is tucked away in the Cascade Mountains on 40 acres of private land near Stevens Pass, about two-thirds of the way from Seattle to Leavenworth, Washington. There are three small, plastic tubs filled with piped-in hot spring water with temperatures varying between the tubs.
- Facilities: Scenic Hot Springs is a rustic operation. There are restrooms and changing rooms, but no overnight accommodations are available on-site. Parking is limited at the trailhead.
- Access fee: Yes, a donation is requested to use Scenic Hot Springs (reservations are required).
- Seasonal sccess restrictions: While the springs are technically accessible year-round, heavy snowfall can make the trail difficult or impassable in the winter. Spring, summer, and early fall are the most reliable times for a visit.
- Camping: Camping is not permitted at Scenic Hot Springs.
- Family-friendly: Scenic Hot Springs is semi-family-friendly. The soaking pools are small, so large groups might feel crowded. The hike up is challenging and the chance of nudity is high.
- Clothing-optional: Yes, clothing is very much optional at Scenic Hot Springs.
- Best time of the year to visit: summer and fall.
- Contact: Official website
- GPS: 47.708944 -121.138066
- View on Washington hot springs map
Directions: Scenic Hot Springs can be tricky to find. From Seattle, take I-5 N to US-2 E. Follow US-2 E for about 50 miles to the town of Skykomish. Continue east on US-2 for another 10 miles. There is an unmarked pull-off on the right side of the road after mile marker 59 for Forest Road 850, which is easy to miss. Turn right onto Forest Road 850 and park in front of the gate. The hike to the hot springs is moderate, about 2.2 miles uphill with an elevation gain of 1100 feet.
Goldmyer Hot Springs
In the foothills of the Cascades, Goldmyer Hot Springs is perfect for a no-frills, back-to-nature soak. Located roughly 25 miles east of North Bend, Washington, within the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. A moderate 4.5-mile hike leads to multiple rock-lined pools with varying temperatures depending on proximity to the source.
- Facilities: Goldmyer Hot Springs is a rustic destination on a 20-acre wilderness preserve. Basic amenities include an open-air cabana near the hot springs, campsites with food lockers and bear hangs, three outhouses, picnic tables and a bike rack. There are no showers, changing rooms or lodging options.
- Access Fee: Yes, there is an access fee to use Goldmyer Hot Springs. Reservations are required to limit visitor numbers and protect the environment.
- Seasonal access restrictions: Goldmyer Hot Springs is accessible year-round, but be prepared for snow in the winter. The road leading to the trailhead can be impassable during heavy snowfall. Always check current road conditions before heading out.
- Camping: Basic camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tent sites are located near the hot springs, but there are no hookups or amenities.
- Family-friendly: The short hike and presence of campsites make Goldmyer Hot Springs potentially family-friendly. However, consider the lack of showers and some basic elements.
- Clothing-optional: Yes, clothing is not required at Goldmyer Hot Springs.
- Best time of the year to visit: Late spring, summer and early fall.
- Contact: Official website
- GPS: Trailhead: 47.51743415144618, -121.45429303176802
Hot Springs: 47.482251, -121.384313 - View on Washington hot springs map
Directions: Goldmyer Hot Springs requires driving on a rough forest road. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended. From Seattle, take I-90 E to exit 34 for North Bend. Turn left onto 468 Ave SE and follow for 0.5 miles. Turn right onto SE Middle Fork Road (Forest Road 56) and follow for 12 miles to the junction with Taylor River Road. Turn right and continue on the unpaved Forest Road 5620 for 5 miles to the Dingford Creek Trailhead. The trail to the hot springs is a moderate 4.5-mile hike.
Olympic National Park: Two Legendary Soaks
Two very different types of hot springs reside within the boundaries of Olympic National Park. Olympic Hot Springs lies deep in the wilderness and requires a challenging hiking or backpacking adventure to reach. Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, on the other hand, provides a comfortable and developed setting with pools, cabins and amenities, ideal for families and those seeking an easier hot springing experience.
Olympic Hot Springs
For a truly wild experience, head to the Madison Falls Trailhead in Olympic National Park and embark on a 10.5-mile hike to Olympic Hot Springs. This backcountry haven features a series of primitive hot pools along a glacial creek, offering a chance to unwind amidst the park’s awe-inspiring scenery. Remember, this is a remote location, so proper planning and wilderness etiquette are essential. Olympic Hot Springs is tucked away within the Olympic National Park wilderness and features seven hot springs with five shallow rock pools and mud bottoms of varying sizes and temperatures alongside Moose Creek.
- Facilities: No facilities exist at Olympic Hot Springs aside from a rustic pit toilet at a nearby backpacker campsite. Be prepared for a primitive experience and pack everything you need, including a tent, sleeping bag, stove and toilet supplies for a multi-day backpacking trip.
- Access fee: There is no access fee for Olympic Hot Springs but a pass is required to enter the National Park.
- Seasonal access restrictions: Olympic National Park experiences significant snowfall, making the trails inaccessible during winter and spring (due to snowmelt runoff). Technically, the pools can be accessed year-round. While late summer and early fall offer the best window for attempting this trek, always be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather.
- Camping: Backcountry camping is permitted in designated areas within Olympic National Park. Not far from the hot pools is Boulder Creek Campground, a small primitive campground with a pit toilet. Always follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment. All backpackers must acquire a wilderness use permit and follow wilderness camping regulations.
- Family-friendly: No. The long hike, lack of facilities and potential for unpredictable weather make Olympic Hot Springs not suitable for children.
- Clothing-optional: Yes. There are no regulations regarding clothing at Olympic Hot Springs, privacy is abundant due to the remote location.
- Best time of the year to visit: June-September
- Public lands contact: Olympic National Park
- GPS: 47.97684520330562, -123.6882494
- View on Washington hot springs map
Directions: Reaching Olympic Hot Springs requires either an incredibly long hike or an overnight backpacking adventure. Coming from Port Angeles, turn onto Olympic Hot Springs Road off Highway 101 before crossing the Elwha River and drive about 2 miles to the Madison Falls Trailhead. Due to a road washout visitors must now park at the Madison Falls Trailhead and hike 10.5 miles to access the hot springs. From the trailhead, hike 9 miles along Olympic Hot Springs Road to the Boulder Creek Trailhead. There’s a short bypass trail that will lead you around the washout. From Boulder Creek, it’s another 1.5 miles to reach the hot pools.
Warning: According to the NPS, Olympic Hot Springs water and pools are not tested by the park and can contain harmful bacteria, especially during the summer months due to water stagnation.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Located on the Olympic Peninsula, Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort offers a variety of pools, some nestled within cedar enclosures, alongside comfortable cabins and a spa. Sol Duc Hot Springs is situated in the northwestern corner of Washington State, along the Sol Duc River within Olympic National Park. The resort features three mineral hot spring pools with varying temperatures, plus a freshwater swimming pool.
- Facilities: The resort offers a variety of lodging options, including cabins, motel rooms and camping sites. There’s a restaurant, gift shop, snack bar, massage services and a playground. Restrooms, changing rooms and ample parking are available.
- Access fee: Yes, there is an access fee to use the hot springs and facilities at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.
- Seasonal access restrictions: The resort is open year-round, but some amenities might have limited hours during the off-season. The park entrance fee applies to the resort as well.
- Camping: Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort offers a campground with tent sites and RV hookups.
- Family-friendly: Yes, Sol Duc Hot Springs is a family-friendly destination with activities and amenities suitable for all ages.
- Clothing-optional: No, clothing is required at the hot springs pools at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.
- Best time of the year to visit: Summer offers the warmest weather for enjoying the outdoors, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive time. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
- Contact: Olympic National Park
- GPS: 47.968662792, -123.85749657
- View on Washington hot springs map
Directions: Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is about a 2-hour drive from Seattle, Washington.
- Take I-5 N to exit 54 for US-101 N.
- Follow US-101 N for about 60 miles to Lake Crescent.
- Turn right onto Upper Hoh Road and continue for 17 miles.
- Turn left onto Sol Duc Hot Springs Road and follow for 6 miles to the resort.
Address: 1020 Sol Duc Hot Springs Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362
Geothermal Gorge: Hot Springs on Washington’s Side of the Columbia River
The Columbia River Gorge in Washington offers a scenic backdrop for several types of hot springs adventures from a cushy resort and private cabins to seasonal natural hot pools along the Wind River. All three hot springs located in this region are just over an hour’s drive from Portland, Oregon.
Carson Hot Springs Resort
Carson Hot Springs Resort offers a blend of natural hot springs, comfortable accommodations and scenic beauty in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Carson Hot Springs is among a handful of hot springs near Portland, Oregon, and is located in Carson, Washington, along the Columbia River. The resort features large, natural-feeling outdoor pools with varying temperatures, all sourced from the mineral hot springs, as well as individual soaking tubs in private rooms.
- Facilities: Carson Hot Springs Resort offers motel rooms and suites, a restaurant, a spa with massage services, restrooms, changing rooms and plenty of parking.
- Access Fee: Yes, there is an access fee to use the hot springs and facilities. Day-use passes are available for those not staying overnight.
- Seasonal access restrictions: The resort is open year-round.
- Camping: Camping is not available at Carson Hot Springs Resort.
- Family-friendly: Yes, Carson Hot Springs Resort is a family-friendly destination.
- Clothing-optional: Clothing is required at the public hot springs pools at Carson Hot Springs Resort.
- Best time of the year to visit: The resort is enjoyable year-round. Summer offers the warmest weather for enjoying the outdoor amenities. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds. Winter offers a chance to soak in the hot springs while surrounded by scenic landscapes.
- Contact: Official Website
- GPS: 45.729251237632845, -121.7976916
- View on Washington hot springs map
Directions: Directions from Portland, Oregon to Carson Hot Springs Resort (approximately a 1.25-hour drive).
- Take I-84 E to exit 44 for US-30 and cross the bridge.
- Take WA-14 E to St Martins Springs Rd.
- Take St Martins Springs Rd to the resort.
Address: 372 St Martins Springs Rd, Carson, WA 98610
Tenzen Cabins & Springs
Tenzen Cabins & Springs offers a unique blend of Japanese-inspired minimalism combined with Scandinavian spa culture and natural hot springs in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Tenzen Cabins is located outside Carson, Washington, on 100 acres of land with stunning views of the surrounding forests. Each cabin features a private outdoor soaking tub with continuously flowing, geothermal hot spring water sourced from deep below Wind River.
- Facilities: Tenzen Cabins & Springs offers six contemporary, minimalist cabins. Each cabin includes a private deck with an infinity geothermal soaking tub, queen-sized bed, outdoor shower, kitchenette and indoor steam sauna shower. There are no communal facilities like a restaurant or spa on-site. Restrooms and basic amenities are included within each cabin. Parking is available on-site. EV ChargePoint and WiFi available.
- Access Fee: Yes, there is an access fee to stay overnight at Tenzen Cabins & Springs. Reservations are required. Rates vary based on season and availability.
- Seasonal Access Restrictions: Tenzen Cabins & Springs is open year-round, but winter weather conditions might impact accessibility. Inquire about road conditions during the winter months.
- Camping: Camping is not available at Tenzen Cabins & Springs.
- Family-friendly: No, Tenzen is adults-only.
- Clothing-optional: Yes, clothing is optional at your private cabin.
- Best time of the year to visit: Year-round.
- Contact: Official Website
- GPS: 45.71957655437202, -121.78229560000001
- View on Washington hot springs map
Directions: From Portland, Oregon Tenzen Cabins & Springs is approximately a 1.25-hour drive.
- Take I-84 E to Cascade Locks via exit 44.
- Take WA-14 E to Berge Rd.
- Follow for 2.5 miles to Tenzen Cabins & Springs.
Address: 932 Berge Rd, Stevenson, WA 98648
Wind River Hot Springs
Wind River Hot Springs is situated near Carson, Washington, on the banks of Wind River. Access is complicated as the springs themselves are located on public land (below the natural waterline of the river) and are surrounded by private property. There are a few ways to access them legally, but trespassing on private land is not an option. Wind River features two bedrock pools where hot water bubbles up from the bottom. The first is usually around 90 degrees and full of algae and silt while the second has much warmer water typically around 100 degrees.
- Facilities: There are no facilities at the hot springs themselves. Restrooms, changing rooms, and overnight accommodations are not available. Parking is potentially available on some nearby neighborhood streets, but be sure to park legally and avoid trespassing.
- Access Fee: No access fee, but there may be parking fees depending on where you choose to park.
- Seasonal access restrictions: The biggest access restriction is the water level of Wind River. The hot springs are submerged during high water periods, typically in the late spring through early summer. Lower water levels in late summer and fall expose the springs, making them accessible.
- Camping: There’s no camping directly at the hot springs due to the access issues. Consider private camping at WindWoodRivers or other developed public land campgrounds in the area or nearby national forests if you plan to extend your trip.
- Family-friendly: Not necessarily. The lack of facilities and potentially tricky access make Wind River Hot Springs less suitable for young children.
- Clothing-optional: Yes, clothing is optional at Wind River Hot Springs.
- Best time of the year to visit: Late summer and early fall.
- Public lands contact: Gifford Pinchot National Forest
- GPS: 45.736871,-121.804191
- View on Washington hot springs map
Directions: Park in the city of Carson and make your way to Wind River. Ford only during low water conditions (late summer/early fall) and work your way upstream while staying below the high water line. It’s a must to research access strategies thoroughly before visiting Wind River Hot Springs.
Washington Hot Springs Soaking Etiquette and Safety
Before you embark on your hot spring adventure, remember these essential tips:
- Respect the environment: Pack out all trash and leave no trace.
- Do not bring glass: This should be self-explanatory. On the same token, wear protective foot gear.
- Respect other soakers: Don’t hog the hot springs. Remember these are places of peace. Leave your personal speakers at home.
- Be aware of clothing policies: Some hot springs are clothing-optional, while others require swimwear.
- Avoid hooking up: There are so many different types of invisible creepy crawlies in the water, don’t give them access to somewhere they should never be. Plus, there’s a really good chance someone is just around the corner.
- Stay hydrated: Hot spring water can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water before, during and after your soak.
- No dogs: Their internal body temperature is way higher than ours. Putting them into a hot springs can result in a horrible situation.
- Listen to your body: Don’t overdo it. Get out of the hot spring if you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
- Be prepared: Check road and trail conditions before leaving and bring a paper map and directions.
- Let someone know: Don’t forget to tell someone where you are going!
With a variety of natural hot springs to choose from, Washington offers an unforgettable soaking experience for every traveler. Hit the road and/or trail and discover the restorative power of Washington’s geothermal wonders. It’s time to reconnect with the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Visit hot springs in another state: California Hot Springs, Idaho Hot Springs, Oregon Hot Springs