The Pacific Northwest has lots of beautiful places, and some of the most special are the hidden hot springs. These hot springs are like warm baths outside, surrounded by trees and mountains. They are a great way to relax and have fun. In this guide, we will talk about some of the best hot springs in Oregon and Washington. Finding these hidden places is itself an adventure, and to soak in the warm water afterward is so good after a promenade in the woods! Besides that, staying in those natural hot springs makes you closer to nature, which means the whole experience will be even more enjoyable.
1. What Makes Hot Springs Special?
Hot springs in the Pacific Northwest are special because they are out in nature, away from busy places. Normally, to get to these hot springs, one has to make their way through a forest or climb hills, which can be even more exciting! Whereupon arrival, the warm water feels great, and you are surrounded by nature. It is like finding a secret place, just for you and your friends or family. Hot springs are also filled with minerals that come from deep underground, which makes the water soothing and good for your body.
2. Hot Springs in Oregon
Cougar Hot Springs (Terwilliger Hot Springs)
Cougar Hot Springs is in a forest called Willamette National Forest. It has several warm pools, and each pool is a different temperature. You can pick the pool that feels best for you! To get there, you need to take a short walk through a beautiful forest with tall trees. It is best to visit on weekdays if you want it to be less crowded. The sound of the water and the warm pools make it very peaceful and relaxing. The area around the hot springs is also great for exploring, with lots of trails and places to take in the beauty of the forest.
The pools at Cougar Hot Springs are stacked like steps, with the hottest pool at the top. Each pool gets cooler as you move down, so you can find the temperature that is perfect for you. You can spend time moving from one pool to another, which makes the experience even more fun. Sitting in the warm water, listening to the birds, and looking up at the tall trees makes you feel like you are in a magical place.
Bagby Hot Springs
Bagby Hot Springs is another favorite in Oregon. It is in the Mount Hood National Forest, and you have to walk through the forest to get there. There are wooden tubs for soaking, which look really cool because they are made from old wood. Some tubs are big so you can share, and some are smaller for just one or two people. It feels like going back in time, and it is very quiet and relaxing. Remember to bring your own towel!
The trail to Bagby Hot Springs is about 1.5 miles long and takes you through beautiful old-growth forest. You can see lots of plants, tall trees, and sometimes even small animals like birds and squirrels. The tubs at Bagby are filled with hot water that flows from the spring, and you can control how hot you want it by adding cold water. It is a great place to relax with friends, and the tubs are in small rooms, giving you some privacy. The whole area has a peaceful, rustic feel that makes it easy to forget about everyday worries.
Umpqua Hot Springs
Umpqua Hot Springs is on a hill that looks over the North Umpqua River. You have to walk up a short, steep trail to get to the pools, but it is worth it! The view from the pools is amazing, with the river and the trees all around. The pools are open all year, even in winter. When it snows, it feels like being in a fairy tale, with warm water and snow around you.
There are several pools at Umpqua, each with a different temperature, so you can choose the one you like best. The view of the river below and the forest around you makes the experience extra special. During winter, soaking in the hot water while snow falls around you is an unforgettable experience. The contrast between the cold air and the warm water makes it feel magical. The Umpqua River is also great for exploring, with trails and beautiful spots to stop and enjoy nature.
3. Hot Springs in Washington
Goldmyer Hot Springs
Goldmyer Hot Springs is hidden deep in the Cascade Mountains. You have to walk about 4.5 miles to get there. The trail goes through forests and across rivers, making it feel like a real adventure. Only a few people are allowed each day, so it is always peaceful. The springs have a warm cave and open pools, and the water is very warm. Because it is far from everything, you need to bring everything you need with you.
The hike to Goldmyer Hot Springs is not too hard, but it is long. You cross streams and walk through the forest, which makes the journey interesting. Once you arrive, you will see a warm cave where hot water flows out, and pools below where you can soak. The cave is especially cozy, and the water is nice and warm. Because only a few people can visit each day, it feels very private and quiet, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Olympic Hot Springs
Olympic Hot Springs is in Olympic National Park. You have to walk about 2.5 miles to get there, and the path goes through a pretty forest with big trees. There are many pools with different temperatures. These hot springs are very natural, so it feels like you are in the wild. Sometimes the trail can be muddy or hard to walk on, so wearing good shoes is a smart idea.
The pools at Olympic Hot Springs are spread out, and each one is a little different. Some are warmer than others, and some are bigger. Because they are not developed, the pools feel very natural, with rocks and sand at the bottom. The hike to get there is beautiful, with lots of greenery and sometimes even wildlife like deer. Visiting Olympic Hot Springs is like stepping into nature, away from all the noise and busyness of everyday life.
Scenic Hot Springs
Scenic Hot Springs is just like its name—it is very scenic! It is in the Cascade Mountains, and you need permission to visit because it is on private land. After a hike through the forest, you will find a few tubs with warm water, and you can see mountains all around. It is best to visit in spring or summer, but winter is also pretty because of the snow.
The hike to Scenic Hot Springs is a bit steep, but once you get to the top, you are rewarded with amazing views of the mountains. The tubs are simple, but they are placed so you can enjoy the scenery while you soak. Because you need permission to visit, there are not many people, which makes it feel quiet and private. The hot springs are especially beautiful in the winter, when the mountains are covered in snow and the air is crisp.
4. Why Hot Springs Are Good for You
Hot springs are not only fun, but they are also good for your body! The warm water has special minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can help you relax and feel less stressed. Soaking in the hot water can also help with joint pain and make your skin feel soft. The heat from the water helps your blood move better, and being out in nature can make you feel calm and happy.
The minerals in the hot springs can also help ease sore muscles after a long hike. The warmth helps improve blood circulation, which can make you feel more energized. Being in nature and away from everyday stress can help clear your mind, making you feel refreshed and more focused. Many people find that spending time in hot springs helps them sleep better and feel more relaxed overall.
5. Hot Spring Rules and Tips
When you visit hot springs, there are some rules to follow so everyone can enjoy them.
- Take All Your Trash: Always take out what you bring in, like food wrappers or bottles. Keeping the hot springs clean helps everyone enjoy them. Leaving no trace is very important to keep nature beautiful.
- Respect Others: Some people wear swimsuits, and some do not. It is important to respect others and make sure everyone feels comfortable. Giving people space and being quiet helps everyone relax.
- Drink Water: The hot water can make you feel thirsty, so bring water to drink. It is better not to drink alcohol because it can make you feel sick in the hot water. Staying hydrated will help you enjoy the hot springs more.
- Check the Rules: Some hot springs need you to make a reservation or only allow a few people at a time. It is a good idea to check before you go. Knowing the rules helps you have a good experience without any surprises.
- Test the Water: Sometimes the water can be very hot. Always test it before getting in to make sure it is safe. If the water is too hot, it can burn your skin, so be careful.
6. Visiting Hot Springs in Different Seasons
Hot springs are open all year, but each season is a little different!
- Summer: In summer, it is easy to get to the hot springs because there is no snow. The weather is warm, and it is fun to camp or hike nearby. The days are long, so you have plenty of time to explore and enjoy the hot springs.
- Fall: In fall, the leaves change colors, and the forest is very pretty. The air is cool, and there are fewer people, so it is quiet. The bright red, yellow, and orange leaves make the hike to the hot springs even more beautiful.
- Winter: In winter, the hot springs feel magical! There is snow all around, but the water is still warm. Be careful, though, because the trails can be slippery. Soaking in the hot water while surrounded by snow is an amazing experience that feels like something out of a storybook.
- Spring: In spring, everything is green, and flowers start to bloom. The trails can be muddy, but it is worth it to see all the new growth and enjoy the fresh air. Spring is a great time to visit if you want to see nature waking up after winter, with lots of flowers and animals coming out.
7. Time for an Adventure!
Visiting the hidden hot springs of the Pacific Northwest is a fun adventure. Walking through the forest, listening to the birds, and then relaxing in the warm water is very special. Each hot spring is a little different, but they all help you feel calm and happy. Whether you like the tall trees in Oregon or the mountains in Washington, the hot springs are waiting for you. Put on your hiking boots, bring your friends or family, and go find these hidden spots. The warm water and beautiful nature will make you feel amazing!
Exploring these hot springs is more than just a trip—it’s a chance to connect with nature in a way that makes you feel relaxed and at peace. Whether you visit in the summer, fall, winter, or spring, each season brings something unique to the experience. So grab your backpack, pack some snacks, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you feeling refreshed and happy. The Pacific Northwest is full of hidden wonders, and the hot springs are some of the best treasures you can find.
