5 Amazing Hot Springs in Washington State to Soothe Your Body

Throughout Washington, you’ll find countless hot springs to soothe your aching muscles and restore your spirits.

However, there are many options, and you don’t want to waste your time on less-than-ideal locations.

Today, we’re discussing some of the best hot springs in the Pacific Northwest so you can plan the trip of a lifetime.

Let’s get into it!

A woman soaks in a hot spring against a backdrop of snowy mountains.

What Are the Benefits of Soaking in Hot Springs?

For thousands of years, people have utilized hot springs to soothe tired muscles and restore vitality. These springs often contain naturally occurring minerals, such as magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, and boron, that can positively affect your health.

Most folks know how relaxing a nice hot bath can be, but hot springs add another element of wellness to the equation.

The minerals in these waters can improve blood circulation, helping oxygen flow seamlessly throughout your body. Regular soaks can help ease muscle pain and improve flexibility. They can even soothe irritating skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Of course, they can also help reduce stress, a key element to overall wellness.

While we can’t promise these hot springs are the fountain of youth, we trust that these Washington destinations will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized, especially after a long day on the road or the trails.

Here are five incredible locations to check out.

Watch this video on YouTube

#1 Olympic and Sol Duc Hot Springs

Olympic National Park is known for its lush, emerald rainforests and rugged appeal. But this Washington hot spot is also flush with hot springs. Olympic Hot Springs is a natural, rustic option, where mineral-rich waters bubble up from the earth and flow into the Elwha River Valley. It’s a heck of a journey to reach this destination, but we think it’ll be worth it.

When the road is in good condition, you only need to hike about 1.5 miles. However, that’s often not the case. Plan to park at the Madison Falls Trailhead, then hike or cycle about ten miles to the springs.

Once you arrive, pristine wilderness will envelop you. Any stress you endured on the trek to the springs should melt away when you hit the water.

Of course, not everyone is up for a journey through the bush. If you’d rather take the luxury route to wellness, consider checking out Sol Duc Hot Springs. This might be the most well-known hot springs resort in Washington. However, it doesn’t have stellar reviews, so we chose to add it as an alternative to nearby Olympic.

#2 Carson Hot Springs Golf and Spa Resort

Another high-end option is Carson Hot Springs Golf and Spa Resort. This luxury establishment features a 1930s bathhouse with claw-foot tubs where you can soak in mineral-rich waters. There’s also a mineral therapy pool for hotel guests to enjoy.

You can opt for packages that include a soak and a specialty spa treatment, such as body wraps and massages.

We suggest booking a room for a few nights and really indulging in the experience. When not relaxing in the hot springs, you can explore the surrounding Columbia River Gorge, one of Washington’s top recreational destinations.

Find out if it’s Illegal to Soak in Hot Springs Naked!

#3 Tenzen Springs and Cabins

For those seeking solitude and serenity in the Pacific Northwest, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the hot springs at Tenzen. This location features 250-square-foot cabins, which are ideal for a personal retreat. Each accommodation includes 600 square feet of outdoor space with a continuously-flowing geothermal soaking tub, outdoor shower, and wrap-around deck.

The property sits on 100 acres of wild land. Trails encourage you to explore the setting when you’re not getting your soak on.

Inside, you’ll find everything you need for a refreshing, reflective escape, including a birding book and a sketchbook where you can express your artistic side. Kitchenettes, luxury bedding, and free WiFi provide all the essentials without the intrusive distractions of TVs. Tenzen offers the best of both worlds for folks who want to feel off the grid while enjoying creature comforts.

Check Out the I-90 Road Trip Guide to Unique Washington Destinations!

#4 Goldmyer Hot Springs

If you’d rather indulge in the wilderness end of the spectrum, consider a trip to Washington’s Goldmyer Hot Springs. Nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, this destination requires a 4.5-mile hike. However, once you get there, you can set up a tent and get comfortable.

Amenities are limited and include a few outhouses, picnic tables, and a bike rack. Don’t expect cell service or Internet access. Instead, get ready to commune with nature.

Northwest Wilderness Programs, a non-profit organization, is the private owner of Goldmyer Hot Springs. Only 20 visitors are allowed each day, so you’ll want to make reservations.

These hot springs feature waterfalls, grottos, and alcoves, perfect for quiet reflection. Each pool is successively cooler than the one next door, so you can choose the right temperature for your needs.

A woman relaxes in a natural mountain-side hot spring like you might see in Washington.

#5 Scenic Hot Springs

Our final hot spring in the Pacific Northwest is Scenic Hot Springs near Skykomish. To get here, you’ll embark on a two-mile trek and gain about 1,100 feet of elevation. The trail is steep and rugged, so wear comfortable hiking shoes and expect to get a little dirty.

Once you reach your destination, you’ll find three artificial mountainside pools filled with luxuriously warm spring water.

This is another spring located on private property, and reservations are required. In fact, they book up well in advance, so get your name on the list. Pronto! Only ten visitors are allowed each day, so you won’t have to deal with too many other soakers. Be aware that clothing is optional, and many bathers choose to bob in the buff.

Grab a set of Waterproof Dry Bags to keep your gear safe at the hot springs!

Are Washington’s Hot Springs Worth It?

Washington state is home to many hot springs where you can soak in the healing waters and rest your weary bones. Whether you want to lounge in luxury at a high-end spa or test your grit on a challenging trek to wellness, you can do it here.

Be sure to plan your trip well in advance, as many spots – resorts and backcountry – are highly exclusive and require reservations. Whatever option you choose, you’re sure to feel refreshed afterward!