The Best Hot Springs in Washington State & How To Find Them

I spent many years in Northern Utah, and one of my favorite parts of living in that area was the easy access to hot springs. A few times a week I would get out of school and head straight to the hot springs for a few hours of soaking. When I moved to Washington I thought it was going to be easy to find a few local hot springs to enjoy. There’s so much geothermal activity in the state and in my mind that meant there are going to be tons of different hot springs in Washington. I quickly learned that I wasn’t 100% correct in this assumption.

Many of the hot springs in Washington are inaccessible due to the dense forests. In Utah, I could easily just hike in to various springs, but in Washington it’s unsafe to go deep into the forest in search of illusive hot springs. Instead, I found myself having to explore more developed hot springs in Washington. It’s hard to find information on all of the different hot springs in the Pacific Northwest, but this post goes over all of the hot springs I’ve learned about in Washington state.

Sol Duc Hot Springs

Location

Sol Duc hot springs is located on the Olympic Peninsula

Pricing

$15 per person for 90 minutes in the pools.

Seasonality

Sol Duc hot springs is open from the end of March to the beginning of November.

Overview

When it comes to hot springs in Washington state, Sol Duc is a famous option. When I first started researching areas where I could relax in Washington hot springs, Sol Duc was always the first option on the list. To visit these pools, you’ll have to make a reservation online in advance.

When you first show up you’ll see that this is more of a spa retreat than an adventurous exploration. There are changing areas, storage lockers, and beautiful pools to explore. The plus side of this being a regulated experience is that the pools feel fairly clean! This is very different than many of the hot springs I used to hike into and explore.

Carson Hot Springs

Location

Carson hot springs is located in southern Washington in the Columbia River Gorge.

Pricing

Seasonality

Overview

TenZen Hot Springs

Location

TenZen hot springs is located in southern Washington in the Columbia River Gorge.

Pricing

Carson Hot Springs offers a range of services and accommodations to fit different budgets. The pricing varies depending on the type of service and the time of the week. Here’s a general overview:

• Soaking Pool Access:
  • Adults: $20-30
  • Seniors (60+): $15-25
  • Children (4-12): $10-20
  • Infants (0-3): Free
• Bathhouse & Mineral Baths:
  • $20-35 per person
• Lodging:
  • Standard rooms: $100-150 per night
  • Suites: $150-250 per night
• Golf Packages (includes lodging, golf, and soaking):
  • Starting at $250 per person
• Spa Services:
  • Massages: $70-150
  • Spa packages: $100-300

Special discounts and packages are often available, especially for groups and extended stays.

Seasonality

Carson Hot Springs is open year-round, with each season offering a unique experience:

• Spring: The blooming surroundings make for a picturesque setting, ideal for soaking and enjoying the fresh air.
• Summer: Warmer weather allows for outdoor activities like hiking and golfing in addition to enjoying the hot springs.
• Fall: The changing colors of the leaves provide a beautiful backdrop, and the cooler weather makes the hot springs even more inviting.
• Winter: The cold weather creates a perfect contrast with the hot springs, offering a cozy and rejuvenating experience.

Overview

Carson Hot Springs, located in the scenic Columbia River Gorge in Washington State, is a historic retreat known for its natural mineral waters and tranquil atmosphere. Established in the early 1900s, the resort offers a variety of amenities including soaking pools, a bathhouse, a golf course, and spa services. Guests can relax in the hot springs, which are rich in minerals believed to have therapeutic properties, or enjoy a range of outdoor activities available in the area. The resort’s rustic charm and natural setting make it a popular destination for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate in a peaceful environment.

Doe Bay Resort & Retreat

Location

Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is located in northwestern Washington on Orcas island.

Pricing

Doe Bay Resort & Retreat offers a variety of accommodation options and services to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a general overview of the pricing:

• Accommodations:
  • Campsites: $35-55 per night
  • Hostel beds: $45-55 per night
  • Domes and yurts: $95-160 per night
  • Cabins: $150-300 per night
  • Houses: $300-500 per night
• Spa Services:
  • Sauna and soaking tubs: $15-25 per person
  • Massages: $80-150
• Event Spaces:
  • Rental fees vary based on the type and duration of the event. Contact Doe Bay for specific pricing.
• Dining:
  • The Doe Bay Café offers meals ranging from $10-30, with a focus on locally sourced, organic ingredients.

Seasonal discounts and package deals are often available, particularly during the off-peak season.

Seasonality

Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is open year-round, with each season providing a distinct experience:

• Spring: Mild weather and blooming flowers make this an ideal time for hiking and exploring the area.
• Summer: Warm temperatures and long days are perfect for enjoying the beach, kayaking, and outdoor festivals.
• Fall: The fall foliage and cooler weather create a cozy atmosphere, ideal for retreat activities and soaking in the hot tubs.
• Winter: The resort is quieter, offering a peaceful retreat with opportunities for storm watching, cozy cabin stays, and winter hiking.

Overview

Nestled on the picturesque Orcas Island in Washington State, Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is a serene destination known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. The resort offers a range of accommodations, including campsites, yurts, cabins, and houses, making it a versatile destination for solo travelers, couples, and groups.

Doe Bay is renowned for its holistic approach to relaxation and wellness, featuring soaking tubs, a sauna, and massage services. The on-site Doe Bay Café serves delicious, farm-to-table meals, with ingredients sourced from the resort’s own garden and local producers.

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and yoga, or simply relax and soak in the stunning views of the Salish Sea. With its focus on sustainability and community, Doe Bay Resort & Retreat offers a unique and rejuvenating getaway experience.

Olympic Hot Springs

Location

Olympic Hot Springs is located on the Olympic Peninsula. There is a 19 mile strenuous hike involved in getting to Olympic hot springs.

Pricing

Free

Seasonality

Only accessible during the late spring – early fall.

Overview

Olympic Hot Springs, nestled within Olympic National Park in Washington State, offers a rustic and serene escape for nature enthusiasts. Accessible via hike through old-growth forests, the natural hot springs feature several small, geothermal-heated pools. Unlike commercial sites, these springs remain undeveloped, providing a unique, immersive experience. Visitors can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters amidst the scenic beauty of the Olympic Mountains and diverse flora and fauna. The area also offers excellent hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. Practicing Leave No Trace principles is encouraged to preserve this pristine setting, making Olympic Hot Springs a perfect getaway for relaxation and rejuvenation in nature.

Goldmyer Hot Springs

Location

Goldmyer hot springs is located near North Bend, Washington. This is only about an hour east of Seattle.

Pricing

Goldmyer Hot Springs offers a rustic, natural experience with a focus on sustainability and limited impact. Here is an overview of the pricing:

• Entrance Fee:
  • Adults: $20 per person
  • Children (18 and under): $15 per person
• Reservations: Required in advance due to limited daily access. A $5 non-refundable reservation fee applies.

Visitors must also purchase a Northwest Forest Pass or pay a day-use fee for access to the trailhead.

Seasonality

Goldmyer Hot Springs is open year-round, with each season providing a unique experience:

• Spring: Mild temperatures and blooming flora make for a scenic hike to the hot springs.
• Summer: Warmer weather and longer days offer ideal conditions for enjoying the hot springs and exploring the surrounding area.
• Fall: Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage create a picturesque setting for soaking in the hot springs.
• Winter: Snow-covered landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere make for a cozy and serene visit, though access may be more challenging due to snow and trail conditions.

Overview

Goldmyer Hot Springs, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, is a hidden gem known for its pristine, natural setting and tranquil atmosphere. Managed by the Northwest Wilderness Programs, the hot springs feature a series of geothermal pools with varying temperatures, surrounded by lush forest and stunning mountain scenery. The journey to Goldmyer involves a moderate 4.5-mile hike, adding to the sense of adventure and seclusion.

Visitors can enjoy soaking in the mineral-rich waters, exploring the nearby waterfalls, and hiking through old-growth forests. The site is designed to have minimal environmental impact, with strict visitor limits and Leave No Trace principles encouraged. Due to its remote location and limited access, Goldmyer Hot Springs provides a unique and intimate experience for those looking to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Reservations are required to ensure a peaceful and uncrowded environment.

Baker Hot Springs​

Location

Baker hot springs is located near Mount Baker. This is about a three hour drive north of Seattle, and the trek up to this Washington hot springs requires a long drive on a forest service road. This forest service road has many potholes and should be driven up with caution.

Pricing

Baker Hot Springs offers a natural and rustic hot spring experience with no formal entrance fees. However, visitors should be prepared for the following potential costs:

• Parking/Access: A Northwest Forest Pass or a day-use fee may be required for parking at the trailhead.
• Donations: While not mandatory, donations to help maintain the area are appreciated.

Seasonality

Baker Hot Springs is accessible year-round, with each season offering a different experience:

• Spring: The melting snow and blooming wildflowers make the hike to the hot springs scenic and enjoyable.
• Summer: Warmer weather and clearer trails provide ideal conditions for visiting the hot springs and exploring the surrounding area.
• Fall: Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage enhance the natural beauty of the hot springs.
• Winter: Snow can make access challenging, but the contrast of hot springs in a winter landscape offers a unique and cozy experience.

Overview

Baker Hot Springs, located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington State, is a natural hot spring destination known for its secluded and unspoiled environment. The hot springs consist of a few small, geothermal-heated pools surrounded by lush forest and scenic mountain views. Accessing Baker Hot Springs involves a moderate hike of approximately 1.5 miles, which adds to the adventure and ensures a peaceful experience.

The hot springs are a popular spot for soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying the tranquility of nature. The area is maintained by the efforts of volunteers and visitors, and it is essential to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve its natural beauty. With its year-round accessibility and stunning surroundings, Baker Hot Springs is a perfect getaway for those seeking a rustic and rejuvenating escape in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

Sulphur Hot Springs

Location

Sulphur hot springs is located just south of the North Cascades National Park in Washington. It takes about three hours to drive to the trail head from downtown Seattle.

Pricing

Pricing

Sulphur Hot Springs offers a rustic and natural experience without formal entrance fees. However, visitors should consider the following costs:

• Parking/Access: A Northwest Forest Pass or a day-use fee may be required for parking at the trailhead.

Seasonality

Sulphur Hot Springs is accessible year-round, with each season providing a unique experience:

• Spring: The hike to the hot springs is enhanced by melting snow and blooming wildflowers, offering scenic beauty.
• Summer: Warm weather and clearer trails make it an ideal time for visiting the hot springs and exploring the surrounding area.
• Fall: Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage add to the natural charm of the hot springs.
• Winter: Snow can make access more challenging, but soaking in the hot springs surrounded by a winter landscape offers a unique and cozy experience.

Overview

Getting to Sulphur hot springs isn’t an easy trek. This requires a steep hike, known as more of a climb, on an unmaintained trail. Sulphur Hot Springs, located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington State, is a secluded natural hot spring known for its serene and unspoiled environment. The hot springs feature a few small, geothermal-heated pools nestled amidst lush forest and scenic mountain views. Accessing Sulphur Hot Springs involves a moderate hike, which adds to the sense of adventure and ensures a tranquil experience.

Visitors can enjoy soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters while taking in the beauty of the surrounding nature. The area is maintained by volunteers and visitors, so practicing Leave No Trace principles is essential to preserve its pristine condition. Sulphur Hot Springs is a perfect destination for those seeking a rustic and rejuvenating escape in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, offering a peaceful retreat year-round.