Washington's Wild Soaks: A Guide to the Evergreen State's Geothermal Gems
Washington, a land of cascading waterfalls, emerald forests, and snow-capped peaks, hides another treasure beneath its rugged surface: a network of natural hot springs, each offering a unique blend of geothermal magic, breathtaking scenery, and a dip into the state's geological history.
The story of Washington's hot springs is as rich as the minerals that infuse their waters. Native American tribes like the Salish and Snoqualmie used the springs for healing rituals and spiritual ceremonies. European settlers, drawn by their therapeutic properties, established resorts and spas in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, these historical remnants like Carson Hot Springs Golf & Spa Resort offer a glimpse into the golden age of Washingtonian spa culture.
From secluded pools nestled amidst ancient evergreens to volcanic-born havens overlooking snow-capped peaks, these watery oases beckon with their promise of warmth, relaxation, and a soak unlike any other.
But with over 50 springs scattered across the state, navigating this watery wonderland can be daunting.
Getting there is an easy flight, with plenty of places to stay. As always I suggest getting travel insurance in case nature rears her head and cancels your travel.
Secret Tips
Escape the crowds: Venture beyond popular spots like Sol Duc Hot Springs and explore hidden gems like Gamma Hot Springs or Bigfoot Hot Springs.
Embrace the rustic charm: Many springs are nestled in remote locations. Be prepared for unpaved roads, minimal amenities, and a chance encounter with wildlife like deer or elk.
Pack for adventure: Bring sturdy shoes for hikes, a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Some springs require specific attire like wool blankets for communal soaking.
Respect the locals and wildlife: Be mindful of noise levels and avoid disturbing the natural environment. Leave no trace and pack out all trash.
Be aware of regulations: Check local regulations and follow signage. Some springs have limitations on group size, alcohol consumption, and clothing.
The Best Time for a Geothermal Getaway
Each season offers its own unique charm at Washington's hot springs:
Spring and fall: Enjoy mild temperatures and vibrant landscapes with fewer crowds.
Summer: Escape the heat and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of popular resorts. Be prepared for larger crowds, especially on weekends.
Winter: Experience the magic of soaking in steaming pools amidst snow-covered mountains at higher-altitude springs like Crystal Pools.
Health Benefits
Washington's hot springs are as diverse in their mineral content as they are in their settings. Here's a glimpse into the magic of their waters:
Sulfur: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, sulfur-rich springs like Gamma Hot Springs and Baker Hot Springs can be beneficial for joint pain and skin conditions.
Magnesium: This "relaxation mineral" found in springs like Scenic Hot Springs and Chihot Springs can ease muscle tension and promote stress relief.
Silica: The smooth, silky feeling of some springs like Crystal Pools comes from silica, which is beneficial for skin health and hair growth.
Lithium: Trace amounts of lithium in springs like Olympic Hot Springs can have mood-boosting and stress-reducing effects.
Beyond these main minerals, many springs contain trace amounts of calcium, iron, manganese, and other elements, each contributing to the unique properties and potential benefits of the water.
From Hidden Gems to Historical Treasures
With so many options to choose from, here are a few highlights to spark your geothermal adventure:
For the Adventurous: Hike through snow-covered mountains to reach Crystal Pools or explore the hidden gems of the North Cascades like Bigfoot Hot Springs.
For the History Buff: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Carson Hot Springs Resort, established in the early 1900s, or visit Baker Hot Springs, a traditional soaking spot used by Native Americans for centuries.
Goldmyer Hot Springs
Goldmyer Hot Springs is a gem of the wilderness found nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, roughly 25 miles east of North Bend, WA. Goldmyer Hot Springs is owned and operated by Northwest Wilderness Programs, a Washington State nonprofit organization established in 1976.
Yes, wilderness, so be prepared for a trek - 4.5 miles of hiking and you need to pack in and pack out so you don’t pollute the springs.
This is along the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River, but I encourgae you to explore the amazing lakes and waterfalls of the Snoqualmie River in its entirety.
Water flows steadily from the source of the spring at 125ºF (52ºC), with the ambient temperature of the "cave" hovering around 111ºF (44ºC). This water cascades into nearby pools with progressively cooler temperatures, down to 104ºF (40ºC). A cold water pool is located adjacent to the hot spring pools for cool downs.
The natural geothermic hot water at Goldmyer carries a range of minerals, all in low amounts. The primary minerals present are sodium, chloride, silica, bicarbonate, sulfate, potassium, and calcium. The pH of the springs is moderately high, about 8.5. The springs have an earthy mineral fragrance, but no strong sulfur smell.
A NW Forest Pass is required to park at the trailhead. Campsites in the the Goldmyer campground are available for an additional fee. Enter the Monthly lottery for prioritized access to establish a reservation OR For openings during the current or next month on the calendar, call 206.789.5631
Note: SUVs or Trucks with AWD or 4WD and 8 - 9 inches of ground clearance needed. There is no cell or internet service.
Carson Hot Springs Golf & Spa Resort
Now if you want some luxury after the beautiful yet tiring trip to Goldmyer, Carson Hot Springs Golf & Spa Resort should be on your list!
Carson Hot Springs Resort offers an idyllic getaway tucked away in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge of Carson, Washington.
This is the only resort in Carson and the Columbia Gorge that offers an authentic and traditional bathhouse experience with mineral hot springs waters. The story goes like this. In 1876, Isadore St. Martin was on a hunting expedition in Carson, Washington, when he discovered the hot springs bubbling up through the rocks of a riverbed. When he slipped his hand into the water, he was shocked to find that the springs were comfortable to the touch. St. Martin marked the spot to file an Indian Homestead claim on the site and headed home to his wife who had neuralgia, a disorder that causes severe pain.
Relax and replenish at Carson Hot Springs Spa, a full-service oasis where you can indulge in deep-tissue massages, hot stone treatments, facials, and body wraps, all in the soothing embrace of the resort's hot springs.
You don’t need to leave the resort since there’s golf, a spa, a mineral pool, and a restaurant. If you do get antsy, enjoy a tour of the dozens of waterfalls along the Columbia Gorge by foot or if adventurous, by air.
Olympic Hot Springs
Olympic Hot Springs are natural, unmaintained hot water seeps in the Elwha River Valley. The pools are in a wilderness area and are not tested or treated by the park. They may contain harmful bacteria and use of these pools is at your own risk. These springs are only accessible by foot and no pets or bicycles are permitted.
There are at least 20 pools - some pools are right along the trail, others are a bit more secluded. When you find one you like, be sure to test the temperature; some can be as high as 118 degrees. Getting there is a choose your own adventure - the shortest route is a 2.5-mile hike with the longest being over 20 miles.
As of early 2025, the National Park Service notes: Due to a road washout, access to Olympic Hot Springs is more difficult. Visitors must park at the Madison Falls Trailhead and either hike or bike 9 miles on Olympic Hot Springs Road. A bypass trail will take you around the road washout. After reaching the Boulder Creek Trailhead at the end of the road, visitors must hike an additional 1.5 miles to reach the hot springs. No bicycles are allowed on the 1.5 mile trail portion.
Camping is permitted near the hot springs but backpackers must follow wilderness camping regulations and acquire a wilderness use permit before their trip.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
If you aren’t up for the hike to Olympic, then Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort nearby might be for you. The springs offer three Mineral Hot Spring soaking pools and one Freshwater Pool. The spring water comes from rain and melting snow, which seeps through cracks in the sedimentary rocks where it mingles with gasses coming from cooling volcanic rocks.
If not staying at Olympic National Park, try out Lake Quinault Lodge or Olympic Lodge.
Located off of the Sol Duc Hot Springs Road, this resort offers seasonal day use of three mineral pools and one fresh water pool. These pools are tested daily to comply with safety and health regulations. The pools are only accessible when the resort is open.
The springs range from 50 to 104 F and two are wheel chair accessible.
