Explore the beauty of Washington while soaking in . From Olympic to Goldmyer, we’ve rounded up the top hot springs for hiking, relaxation, and family fun. Don’t forget to read our tips before planning your trip!
Scenic Hot Springs in Washington
Washington State is home to some of the most beautiful in the country. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a place to relax and recharge, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the most scenic hot springs in Washington:
Olympic Hot Springs
Located in Olympic National Park, the Olympic Hot Springs are a must-see for anyone visiting the area. The hot springs are accessible via a moderate 2.5-mile hike through a beautiful forest. Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with a series of pools ranging in temperature from 85-105°F. The pools are surrounded by lush greenery, and the sound of the nearby river creates a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Sol Duc Hot Springs
Another gem located in Olympic National Park, the Sol Duc Hot Springs are a popular destination for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The hot springs are situated in a lush valley and offer a variety of pools with temperatures ranging from 99-104°F. The area is surrounded by old-growth forests and stunning mountain views, making it the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.
Goldmyer Hot Springs
Located in the Snoqualmie Region of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, the Goldmyer Hot Springs are a hidden gem that requires a little more effort to reach. Accessible only by a 4.5-mile hike through a beautiful forest, the hot springs are well worth the journey. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a series of natural pools with temperatures ranging from 104-108°F. The area is surrounded by stunning mountain views and is a great place to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Carson Hot Springs
Located in the Columbia River Gorge, the Carson Hot Springs Resort is a historic property that has been offering guests a relaxing retreat since the early 1900s. The resort features a variety of indoor and outdoor hot springs pools with temperatures ranging from 100-104°F. The area is surrounded by beautiful gardens and stunning mountain views, making it the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Hot Springs Cove
Located on the remote and rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, Hot Springs Cove is a unique and unforgettable destination. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the hot springs are situated in a stunning cove overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The pools are fed by a natural hot spring and have temperatures ranging from 110-120°F. The area is surrounded by rugged coastline and lush rainforest, making it the perfect place to connect with nature and soak in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
*Note: The table below shows the temperatures of the hot springs mentioned above.
| Hot Springs | Temperature Range |
|---|---|
| Olympic | 85-105°F |
| Sol Duc | 99-104°F |
| Goldmyer | 104-108°F |
| Carson | 100-104°F |
| Hot Springs Cove | 110-120°F |
Natural Hot Springs in Washington
Washington State is home to some of the most beautiful in the United States. These hot springs are located in the heart of the Olympic Mountains, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
Olympic Hot Springs
The Olympic Hot Springs are located within the Olympic National Park and are accessible via a moderate 2.5-mile hike. This hike takes visitors through the lush rainforest and over picturesque streams, leading to the . The water in the Olympic Hot Springs is naturally heated and is rich in minerals that are believed to have therapeutic properties.
Visitors are advised to bring their own towels and swimsuits, as there are no changing facilities or rentals available. The Olympic Hot Springs are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is mild. It’s important to note that camping and overnight stays are not permitted in the area.
Sol Duc Hot Springs
The Sol Duc Hot Springs are located in the northwest corner of the Olympic National Park and are accessible via a short hike from the Sol Duc Resort. The hot springs are surrounded by old-growth forests and are situated near the Sol Duc River. The water in the Sol Duc Hot Springs is heated by geothermal activity and is rich in mineral content.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in one of the four hot pools or take a dip in the cool waters of the nearby river. The Sol Duc Hot Springs are open year-round, and overnight stays are available at the Sol Duc Resort.
Goldmyer Hot Springs
The Goldmyer Hot Springs are located in the Cascade Mountains and are accessible via a 4.5-mile hike through the Snoqualmie National Forest. The hot springs are situated in a secluded valley and are surrounded by lush forests and picturesque waterfalls.
Visitors must obtain a permit to access the Goldmyer Hot Springs, and the number of visitors is limited to protect the natural environment. The water in the hot springs is naturally heated and is rich in minerals, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing soak.
It’s important to note that the hike to the Goldmyer Hot Springs is challenging, and visitors should come prepared with proper footwear and clothing. Camping is not permitted in the area.
Commercial Hot Springs in Washington
Washington State is home to numerous hot springs that offer relaxation and rejuvenation to visitors. One popular option for those seeking a commercial hot spring experience is to visit Carson Hot Springs. The resort features a variety of hot tubs and pools that are fed by natural mineral water. The water is known for its healing properties, and visitors can enjoy a soothing soak while taking in the beautiful surrounding scenery.
Another popular commercial hot spring destination in Washington is Iron Springs Resort. Located on the Olympic Peninsula, the resort offers private hot tubs and mineral baths, as well as cabins and camping options for overnight stays. The water at Iron Springs is rich in minerals, including sulfur, which is known for its therapeutic benefits. Visitors to the resort can take advantage of the many amenities available, including a massage studio, yoga classes, and a sauna.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is another commercial hot spring destination in Washington that is worth considering. The resort is located in Olympic National Park and features a variety of hot springs pools, as well as a freshwater swimming pool. The water at Sol Duc is rich in minerals, including sulfur, calcium, and magnesium, which are known for their therapeutic benefits. The resort also offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins and RV camping sites.
Carson Hot Springs
Carson Hot Springs is located in the town of Carson, Washington, and has been a popular destination for over 100 years. The resort features a variety of hot tubs and pools that are fed by natural mineral water. The water is heated to a temperature of around 98 degrees Fahrenheit and is known for its healing properties.
Visitors to Carson Hot Springs can choose from a variety of soaking options, including private tubs, communal pools, and outdoor hot springs. The resort also offers a range of spa services, including massages, facials, and body treatments. For those looking for a more active experience, there are hiking trails nearby, as well as fishing and skiing opportunities in the winter.
Iron Springs Resort
Iron Springs Resort is located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State and offers a variety of hot springs pools and mineral baths. The resort is set in a beautiful wooded area and offers a range of accommodations, including cabins, RV camping sites, and tent sites.
Visitors to Iron Springs can enjoy private hot tubs and mineral baths that are fed by natural spring water. The water is rich in minerals, including sulfur, which is known for its therapeutic benefits. The resort also offers a variety of amenities, including a massage studio, yoga classes, and a sauna.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is located in Olympic National Park and offers a variety of hot springs pools, as well as a freshwater swimming pool. The resort is set in a beautiful natural setting and offers a range of accommodations, including cabins and RV camping sites.
The water at Sol Duc is rich in minerals, including sulfur, calcium, and magnesium, which are known for their therapeutic benefits. Visitors to the resort can enjoy a variety of soaking options, including private tubs and communal pools. The resort also offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, gift shop, and hiking trails.
Hot Springs for Hiking Enthusiasts
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for a unique way to relax after a long day of hiking, Washington’s hot springs are just what you need. Here are three hot springs that are perfect for hikers:
Olympic Hot Springs
Located in the Olympic National Park, Olympic Hot Springs is a natural geothermal pool that can only be accessed by hiking. The trailhead is located in the Elwha Valley near Port Angeles, and the hike is a moderate 5.6 miles round trip. Along the way, you’ll pass through old-growth forests, cross the Elwha River, and see several smaller hot springs before reaching the main pool. The water temperature ranges from 104 to 109 degrees Fahrenheit, and the pool is surrounded by beautiful moss-covered rocks and trees.
Sol Duc Falls Trail to Sol Duc Hot Springs
The Sol Duc Falls Trail is a popular hiking trail in the Olympic National Park that leads to the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. The trailhead is located near Lake Crescent, and the hike is around 6.2 miles round trip. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush rainforests and see the beautiful Sol Duc Falls. At the end of the trail, you’ll find the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort where you can soak in the or enjoy a massage at the resort’s spa.
Goldmyer Hot Springs via Middle Fork Trail
Goldmyer Hot Springs is a secluded and natural hot spring located in the Cascade Mountains near North Bend, Washington. The only way to reach the hot springs is by hiking the Middle Fork Trail, which is a moderate 4.5-mile hike each way. The hot springs are maintained by the non-profit organization, Northwest Wilderness Programs, and only a limited number of visitors are allowed each day to preserve the natural beauty of the area. The water temperature ranges from 104 to 107 degrees Fahrenheit, and the hot springs are surrounded by a beautiful forest and a nearby waterfall.
If you’re a hiker looking for a unique way to relax and unwind after a long day on the trails, Washington’s hot springs are a must-visit. These three hot springs are just a few examples of the many beautiful and that Washington has to offer. So grab your hiking boots, pack your swimsuit, and get ready for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in nature.
Hot Springs for Relaxation
If you’re looking for a place to unwind and de-stress, you can’t go wrong with one of Washington’s hot springs. The state boasts a number of fantastic hot springs that provide the perfect setting for relaxation. In this section, we will explore three of the best hot springs in Washington for relaxation: Carson Hot Springs, Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, and Iron Springs Resort.
Carson Hot Springs
Carson Hot Springs is a historic hot springs resort located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The resort features two mineral water pools, a steam room, and a sauna. The water at Carson Hot Springs is naturally carbonated and contains high levels of silica, which is said to be good for the skin. Visitors can also enjoy massages, facials, and other spa treatments at the resort.
One of the unique features of Carson Hot Springs is the historic bathhouse, which was built in 1932 and is still in use today. The bathhouse features private, individual tubs that are filled with hot mineral water. Visitors can soak in the tubs for as long as they like, and the water is changed between each use.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is located in Olympic National Park and offers a variety of hot springs pools, including a large heated pool, a freshwater pool, and several smaller pools. The pools are surrounded by forest and offer a peaceful and serene setting for relaxation.
The water at Sol Duc Hot Springs is rich in minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, which can help to ease muscle tension and promote relaxation. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the surrounding area.
Iron Springs Resort
Iron Springs Resort is located on the Olympic Peninsula and offers a variety of hot springs pools, as well as cabins and other accommodations. The resort features two outdoor cedar hot tubs, which are filled with natural mineral water from a nearby spring.
The water at Iron Springs Resort is rich in minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which can help to soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation. Visitors can also enjoy massages, facials, and other spa treatments at the resort.
Family-Friendly Hot Springs in Washington
When it comes to hot springs in Washington, there are plenty of options available for families looking to enjoy a relaxing soak in nature. In this section, we’ll highlight three of the best family-friendly hot springs in the state: Carson Hot Springs, Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, and Iron Springs Resort.
Carson Hot Springs
Carson Hot Springs is a historic hot springs resort located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The resort has been in operation since 1901 and offers a variety of accommodations, including rooms in the main hotel building and cottages scattered throughout the property.
The hot springs at Carson are mineral-rich and have been used for their healing properties for over a century. The water is sourced from a natural spring and is kept at a comfortable temperature between 98 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The resort also offers a variety of spa treatments, including massages and facials, to complement your soak.
For families, Carson offers a variety of activities, including a seasonal outdoor pool, horseshoe pits, and a playground. The resort also has a restaurant and lounge on-site, so you can enjoy a meal or a drink after your soak.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is located in Olympic National Park and offers a unique hot springs experience for families. The resort is nestled in a wooded valley and features three mineral hot springs pools, each with a different temperature.
In addition to the hot springs, Sol Duc offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, fishing, and kayaking. The resort also has a restaurant on-site, as well as a gift shop and general store.
For families, Sol Duc offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins and RV sites. The resort also has a playground and a game room, as well as a picnic area for outdoor meals.
Iron Springs Resort
Iron Springs Resort is located on the Olympic Peninsula and offers a rustic hot springs experience for families. The resort features two mineral hot springs pools, as well as a sauna and a cold plunge pool.
In addition to the hot springs, Iron Springs offers a variety of outdoor activities, including beach access and hiking trails. The resort also has a restaurant on-site, as well as a small store for essentials.
For families, Iron Springs offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins and yurts. The resort also has a game room and a playground, as well as a fire pit for evening campfires.
Clothing-Optional Hot Springs in Washington
Washington state is home to some of the most beautiful and unique hot springs in the country. While many hot springs require swimsuits, there are a handful that are clothing-optional, allowing visitors to soak in the warm waters au naturel. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at two of these clothing-optional hot springs: Hot Springs Cove and Bagby Hot Springs.
Hot Springs Cove
Located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Hot Springs Cove is a remote, natural hot spring that can only be accessed by boat or plane. Since it’s located on First Nations land, visitors must purchase a pass and are required to respect the rules and customs of the local community.
The hot springs themselves are situated on a rocky beach, surrounded by lush rainforest. The water temperature ranges from 109 to 121 degrees Fahrenheit, and there are several pools to choose from, each with different temperatures. While clothing is optional, visitors are asked to be respectful of others and to cover up when walking around the area.
Hot Springs Cove is a popular destination for whale watching tours, as well as for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing soak in a stunning natural setting. It’s important to note that the hot springs are only accessible during certain times of the year, and visitors should plan accordingly.
Bagby Hot Springs (nearby in Oregon)
Located just across the border in Oregon, Bagby Hot Springs is a popular destination for those seeking a clothing-optional soak. The springs are situated in a beautiful forested area, and visitors must hike a short distance to reach them.
There are several pools to choose from, each with different temperatures, and visitors can rent private tubs for a more secluded experience. While clothing is optional at Bagby Hot Springs, it’s important to note that the area is family-friendly, and visitors are asked to be respectful of others.
In addition to the hot springs, there are several hiking trails in the area, as well as a campground for those who want to spend the night. It’s important to note that Bagby Hot Springs is a popular destination, and visitors should plan accordingly, especially during peak season.
Note: Always be respectful of others and follow local customs and rules when visiting clothing-optional hot springs.
Things to Consider Before Visiting a Hot Spring
Hot springs are natural wonders that offer a unique and relaxing experience. However, before you pack your bags and head out to soak in the hot waters, there are a few things to consider. In this section, we’ll discuss some important factors that you should keep in mind when planning your trip to a hot spring.
Clothing Regulations
One of the most important things to consider before visiting a hot spring is clothing regulations. While some hot springs allow visitors to wear swimsuits or other clothing, others require nudity. It’s important to research the dress code of the hot spring you plan to visit before you go.
If you’re not comfortable with nudity, you may want to choose a hot spring that allows swimwear. On the other hand, if you’re open to the experience, a clothing-optional hot spring may be a great choice. Just make sure you’re aware of the regulations and comfortable with them before you go.
Water Temperature and Quality
Another important consideration when visiting a hot spring is water temperature and quality. Hot springs can range in temperature from lukewarm to scalding hot, so it’s important to know what to expect before you get in.
Additionally, you should research the water quality of the hot spring you plan to visit. Some hot springs may contain high levels of minerals or bacteria that could be harmful to your health. Make sure you’re aware of any potential risks before you go and take necessary precautions.
Accessibility and Facilities
Before planning a trip to a hot spring, you should also consider accessibility and facilities. Some hot springs may be located in remote areas that require a long hike to reach. Others may have limited facilities, such as no restrooms or changing areas.
Make sure you research the accessibility and facilities of the hot spring you plan to visit before you go. This will ensure that you’re prepared for the journey and have everything you need to enjoy your soak.
Conservation and Leave No Trace Ethics
Finally, it’s important to consider conservation and Leave No Trace ethics when visiting a hot spring. Hot springs are delicate ecosystems that can be easily damaged by human activity. To ensure that hot springs remain accessible for future generations, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles.
This includes packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife and plant life in the area. Additionally, you should avoid using soaps, shampoos, or other personal care products in the hot spring, as these can damage the ecosystem.
In conclusion, visiting a hot spring can be a unique and relaxing experience. However, it’s important to consider a few key factors before you go. By researching dress codes, water temperature and quality, accessibility and facilities, and conservation and Leave No Trace ethics, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to the hot springs.
