Olympic Hot Springs, Washington - All You Must Know
Photo courtesy of @the.seasonal.traveller
For years, Olympic Hot Springs in Washington held a place on my bucket list. Having finally made the pilgrimage, I can say it was everything I hoped for and more. It’s become one of my favorite Washington hot springs.
But let's be upfront: Olympic Hot Springs offers a much wilder experience than your typical spa resort. It's a testament to nature's beauty tucked within the heart of Olympic National Park's Elwha Valley. This translates to a bit more effort and fewer amenities, but the reward, for me, more than makes up for it.
The journey itself is part of the adventure. The trailhead is a good drive from major cities like Seattle or Portland, so plan accordingly. The last stretch of road to the trailhead is gravel and notoriously rough, especially after heavy rain. A high-clearance vehicle is helpful, though I saw plenty of smaller cars making it work, just a bit slower. The hike to the springs adds 2.5 miles each way. Most of it follows an old roadbed, making for an easy walk, but with sections of rocks and roots that require decent hiking shoes.
As I approached the springs, excitement mingled with the scent of sulfur. Suddenly, there they were – a series of pools of varying sizes and temperatures spilling forth from boulders. The water, an impossible shade of turquoise, shimmered with dissolved minerals, wisps of steam swirling against the vibrant green mountainsides.
I slipped into a warm pool and felt a wave of pure bliss wash over me. Day-to-day worries dissolved as the mineral-rich water enveloped me. Time warped and softened. All afternoon, I explored the pools, finding the perfect soaking spots, and soaking in the otherworldly beauty of the place.
Some key points for planning your trip:
Olympic Hot Springs is a clothing-optional destination – embrace the freedom or stick to your swimsuit, the choice is yours.
Respect the wilderness. There are no trash facilities or restrooms here – pack out everything you bring in.
Be aware: these are natural, unmaintained pools. They aren't cleaned or tested, so there's a potential for bacteria. Soaking is at your own risk.
This place gets popular, especially weekends and holidays. Going mid-week offers a better chance of solitude.
Camping is permitted nearby, turning your hot springs trip into a true wilderness escape. Wilderness camping permits are required.
A note on the hike: While classified as "moderate," be mindful of your own fitness level. There's some elevation gain, and the trip back always feels longer than the way in. Allow plenty of time to avoid hiking in the dark. Bonus: those staying late are rewarded with some of the darkest, most star-filled skies in the country. Imagine soaking under the Milky Way – it's pure magic!
Beyond the logistics, there's something special about the vibe at Olympic Hot Springs. The journey naturally filters out those seeking a polished resort experience. This leaves a community of nature enthusiasts, hikers, and adventurers connected by a love for the outdoors. Sharing that connection, while soaking in this truly wild landscape, was an incredibly grounding and refreshing experience.
Let me be clear: Olympic Hot Springs won't be for everyone. But if you yearn for an authentic wilderness experience, crave the rejuvenation of natural hot springs, and aren't afraid of a little trek to reach paradise, then this gem within Olympic National Park might just become your new favorite escape.
