Not only does the Pacific Northwest boast soaring mountains, lush rainforest and breathtaking, rugged coastlines, but it’s home to multiple natural hot springs – and, there are few better ways to relax than soaking in their warm, soothing waters. The minerals and the geothermal heat work together to calm the mind, restore the soul, and bring relief to sore muscles.
If you’d like to plan a getaway that will allow you to enjoy this geothermic wonderland, choosing any of these is sure to make for an unforgettable escape.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, Olympic National Park
Photo credit: Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park is not only home to one of the finest remaining examples of temperate rainforest in the U.S., the Hoh Rainforest, it plays host to Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. The resort features cabins that are surrounded by towering evergreen trees along the Sol Duc River, offering easy access to its fabulously soothing hot spring pools and a freshwater pool. Massage therapy and dining can be enjoyed right onsite, and if you’d prefer to camp under the stars, the resort includes a campground too.
Goldmyer Hot Springs
photo credit: hundertmorgen
Goldmyer Hot Springs, North Bend, Washington
Goldmyer Hot Springs is a true wilderness gem, tucked within the Cascade foothills about 25 miles east of North Bend. Located on private land, just 20 visitors are allowed at any one time in order to protect the fragile ecosystem and scenic beauty of the remote soaking pools. While that means it’s never crowded, reservations are a must if you plan to go on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday. To get there, you’ll have to hike, bike or cross-country ski the 4.5 miles down Middle Fork Road. While it may not be ideal for families with very young children, it’s a great choice for those who prefer more of a get-back-to-nature feel – just keep in mind that some bathers take that a notch up by soaking in the nude.
Carson Hot Springs Resort
photo credit: Carson Hot Springs Resort
Carson Hot Springs Resort, Carson, Washington
This historic property was built in 1901 and sits nestled in the heart of the Columbia Gorge on the Washington State side just an hour east of Portland. A unique getaway with an authentic bathhouse and cabins set among the peaceful scenery, it invites guests to kick back, relax and enjoy nature right from their very own private hot tub. There are few things better than spending the day hiking to countless waterfalls, sampling wine at the area’s wineries and then returning to Carson for a nice soak.
Lava Hot Springs
photo credit: Lava Hot Springs Resort
Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
Lava Hot Springs is a popular spot for families with its multiple outdoor hot pools, an indoor pool complex, heated walkways, and a climbing wall. There’s even a water park with diving platforms, water slides and more. The water bubbles from a natural underground springs, and while it is laden with minerals, it doesn’t contain sulfur, which means you won’t have to deal with that unpleasant odor, you can just sit back in the steam and soak your worries away. While there are no accommodations right at the springs, you’ll find numerous options nearby.
Burgdorf Hot Springs
photo credit: Ben Moxham, Andrew Napier via Burgdorf Hot Springs
Burgdorf Hot Springs, McCall, Idaho
This resort is tucked away just north of McCall, Idaho and features an Olympic-sized, naturally-fed pool, along with an enclosed child pool. Rustic cabins offer a “cabin camping” experience sans running water or electricity (though there are wood stoves and firewood) for those who want to soak under the stars after hours.
Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat
photo credit: Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat
Breitenbush Hot Springs, Willamette National Forest, Oregon
Breitenbush offers the total experience, allowing visitors to completely disconnect from the chaos of modern life as one of the most relaxing spots in the Northwest for going off the grid. Guests can enjoy everything from short getaways to permanent stays, dining on healthy vegetarian cuisine and taking part in daily well-being programs like meditative guided hikes on trails named “The Gorge,” “Spotted Owl,” “Emerald Forest,” and “Inner Path,” that lead to ancient forest cathedrals, cascading rivers and awe-inspiring mountain views. Yoga, massage, and the famous natural geothermal hot springs are all part of the experience too.
Belknap Hot Springs Lodge & Gardens
photo credit: Belknap Hot Springs Lodge & Gardens
Belknap Hot Springs Lodge and Gardens, McKenzie Bridge Oregon
For a slightly more upscale experience, the Belknap Hot Springs Lodge and Gardens sits alongside the McKenzie River in Central Oregon. A hidden gem, it’s open year-round and features two mineral hot springs pools, acres and acres of beautiful gardens, including the impressive Secret Garden, along with a variety of accommodation options. You’ll find everything from tent and RV sites to cabins, lodge rooms and even mountain home rentals to complete your ideal getaway.
Summer Lake Hot Springs
photo credit: Summer Lake Hot Springs
Summer Lake Hot Springs, Paisley, Oregon
Located along the shores of Summer Lake in southeastern Oregon, the secluded ancient artesian hot mineral springs of Summer Lake Hot Springs are part of a small resort that includes cabin and home rentals as well as full hookup RV sites and tent sites. It features a large indoor pool and a number of outdoor rock pools, as well as nature trails and ponds.