Discover the best hot springs in Washington!
Washinton is a state known for its stunning forested scenery and atmospheric ambiance, so it’s no wonder some stunning hot springs are hidden amongst the landscape.
Most of the United States hot springs can be found down the west coast, and Washington is no different. All of Washington’s hot springs can be found along the western side of the coast from north to south, making this a gem of the Pacific Northwest.
In this guide, we are going to explore our five favorite hot springs in Washington and give you a complete list of every hot spring in the state.
5 Best Hot Springs in Washington
Washington has a lush, varied landscape, and that is reflected in its hot springs, which are located in the most scenic area of the state. The scenery is so stunning that it makes you want to get out into nature, and you can do that in both Washington’s primitive and developed hot springs.
Whether you want a more luxurious hot spring experience in a resort or a primitive soak in nature, there is something for you in the state of Washington that will fit your budget. Many of these hot springs are also easily accessible from Seattle if you are staying in the city and want a break.
Now, let’s look at our five favorite hot springs in Washington:
Goldmyer Hot Springs
One of the great things about Goldmyer Hot Springs is its location. It is the closest hot spring to Seattle while still being primitive, so it’s a wonderful way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Who wouldn’t want to escape to a secluded pool and soak your troubles away in natural hot springs?
The hot springs are made up of a few pools feds by a small waterfall that runs off the rock face. There is a set of stone steps with a handrail leading down to the hot springs so you don’t slip on your way down. If you want to cool down between soaks, there is even a cold mineral pool for you to enjoy.
Although it is primitive, some simple amenities are built around the natural mineral pools, like an open-air cabana, picnic tables, and an outhouse. Even with these fixtures, it’s essential that you bring your own supplies and pack out all your trash when you leave.
There are campsites available next to the hot springs, so we recommend taking advantage of this and spending a few days at the hot springs soaking in the healing waters.
If you want to visit Goldmyer Hot Springs, you must take the Goldmyer Hot Springs Trail. This route is 4.5 miles one way through the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. This is a visually stunning hike, but it can be quite challenging, so you need to go in prepared.
These hot springs are very popular, so it’s crucial that you make a reservation and pay a small fee well in advance to secure your spot. The springs are open all year round, but 4×4 vehicles with tire chains may be required to reach the trailhead in winter.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Sol Duc Hot Springs is one of two Olympic hot springs that can be found in the Olympic National Park, and it takes full advantage of that fact. It is the perfect example of Washington hot springs because it provides a relaxing soaking experience surrounded by the iconic forested mountains and Sol Duc River.
The resort is full of rustic charm as each guest is welcomed into the classic lodge building. The grounds are filled with a communal garden and rustic cabins. Guests can rent out these cabins or choose to camp at the campsite on-site. However, there are also day passes available.
When it comes to the hot springs, there are a few options at Sol Duc. The series of round natural hot tubs vary in size and temperature. The Small Mineral Wading Pool is the deepest at 6-8’’ with a temperature of 99 F. The Medium Mineral Pool and Large Mineral Fountain Pool are shallower, suitable for ages four and up, and have a warmer temperature between 101-104 F.
There is also a large, cold, freshwater pool for you to cool down between dips in the hot springs.
Sol Duc is open from March to October.
Scenic Hot Springs
Scenic Hot Springs has gone through a few iterations and changed hands a few times before we became what it is today.
They were initially opened in the 1890s as Madison Springs, but the spot was abandoned and forgotten before it was ‘rediscovered’ in the 1980s and renovated into what it is today.
Situated in the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest, these hot springs are hidden amongst the trees in an incredibly beautiful spot. It is particularly stunning in the winter when the surrounding tree tops and the deck are covered in snow.
The hot springs are made up of three plastic soaking tubs that sit beside each other and are surrounded by a wooden deck. Clothing is optional when soaking, so you should prepare yourself for nudity.
You will need to make a reservation in advance and pay a small fee to visit these hot springs. Even though these hot springs are considered developed, you should prepare for a 2-mile uphill to reach them. You may need skis or snow shoes if you are attempting this trek in the winter, so you should bring all the appropriate equipment.
We urge you to visit Scenic Hot Springs if you are a nature enthusiast and are keen to take in the gorgeous forested setting while you soak. It is located just 1.5 hours from Seattle, so it is the ideal way to escape the buzz of the city and have a moment of calm.
Carson Hot Springs Resort
Hidden in the Columbia River Gorge, Carson Hot Springs Resort is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for pampering.
This rustic resort has a few options for experiencing the hot springs. Firstly is the mineral therapy pool, which is for 18 and over. This spot has a view of the gorgeous natural surroundings and offers a calming place to soak.
However, if you prefer a more private soak, you can use the 1913 bathhouse. Here there are individual mineral hot tubs in the form of vintage clawfoot tubs where you can soak in a calming spa environment.
Alongside these hot tubs is a spa that offers massages, facials, waxing, and a dry sauna. There is even a body wrap that you can get directly after your soak.
If you want to stay on-site, hotel rooms are available that can offer package deals for using the hot springs.
Olympic Hot Springs
This primitive hot spring spot is the epitome of natural beauty. The series of small rock pools can be found hidden in the dense Port Angeles forest, which provides you with a stunning view as you soak.
The hot spring pools are ringed in stone and large logs and maintain a temperature of around 118 F, though temperatures will vary from pool to pool. They are the perfect place to soak after a long hike through the forest.
Olympic Hot Springs is found in Olympic National Park, which you will need to hike through to reach them. The most common route is along the Appleton Pass Trailhead. This hike will take you past Madison Falls and up a steep elevation, so you will need to go in prepared. The whole trip is a 20-mile roundtrip.
No camping is allowed next to the hot springs, but the Boulder Creek Campground is only ½ mile away.
You will need to pay a small fee to access the park, which will be valid for seven days. Please note that the hot springs are only open between May and October.
Full List of Washington Hot Springs
As we mentioned, most of Washington’s hot springs are found along the west coast of the state around Seattle and near the border with Vancouver. If you are visiting Seattle, there are numerous choices of hot springs nearby that provide a good alternative to city activities.
Hot Spring | Location in Washington | Developed or Primitive |
Carson Hot Springs Golf and Spa Resort | Carson | Developed |
Doe Bay Resort and Retreat | Olga | Developed |
Goldmyer Hot Springs | North Bend | Primitive |
Olympic Hot Springs | Port Angeles | Primitive |
Scenic Hot Springs | Okanogan Wenatchee | Primitive |
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort | Port Angeles | Developed |
Sulphur Warm Springs | Darrington | Primitive |
Wind River Hot Springs | Carson | Primitive |
Types of Hot Springs in Washington
In general, hot springs can be divided into two distinct categories: primitive and developed.
Both of these versions have their own pros and cons and provide very different experiences. Let’s take a look at the difference between these hot springs so you can know what to expect.
Primitive
By far, the most incredible hot springs in Washington are primitive. These hot springs are nestled in amongst the mountains and forests and really show off the natural landscape of the state. What could be better than lying back in a hot spring surrounded by a dense mossy forest?
Many of these hot springs can be found in the Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park, and the North Cascades mountains. This means that they all require a hike of some kind to reach. Due to this, unfortunately, many primitive hot springs won’t be accessible for children or those that are unable to make the tough hikes.
To reward you for your long hike, you will be able to experience the incredible views along the way before taking a dip in the stunning natural hot springs.
The great thing about primitive hot springs is they are an activity you can take part in for free. If there is a fee, it is usually a small one at a trailhead or entrance to a national park.
Unusually, some of Washington’s primitive hot springs require you to make a reservation in advance, so it is important that you check if this is the case in advance.
Developed
If all you want is a relaxing experience from start to finish, then a developed hot spring might be more your speed.
There are only three developed hot springs in Washington, and all of them are in resorts. If you want a spa-like hot spring experience, then this state has some great options. These locations are easy to get to and often have accommodations, spas, and other amenities that make the overall experience even more comfortable.
Even though these hot springs are experienced in pools and hot tubs, there is still a chance to take in the gorgeous natural surroundings due to the idyllic setting. Sol Duc Hot Springs is a great example of this, as they have all the amenities as well as breathtaking views of the Olympic National Park.
Washington is a stunning state with a rich natural landscape dotted liberally with hot springs. These spots are gems within the Pacific Northwest that let you experience this state in a whole new way.