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The Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat & Convention Center is a worker-owned cooperative in Detroit, Oregon. Located amidst the Willamette National Forest, this hot spring boasts saunas, well-being programs, massages, and other facilities to help you unwind and reconnect with yourself.

Natural Hot Springs Pools

Image of hot spring pool at Breitenbush Hot Springs Oregon
Take in Oregon’s stunning scenic views while soaking. Photo by: Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat

Also called Upper Breitenbush, Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat is surrounded by picturesque scenery including forests, mountains, and the nearby glacier-fed Breitenbush River. The resort is comprised of seven natural pools, set up in two different areas: the sacred meadow and the concrete patio.

The sacred meadow is across from the forest line and overlooks the river. This area contains three pools with smooth rock beds, each big enough for 6 to 10 people.

One of the pools is referred to as the “silent” pool and is designated for introspection. Conversations are allowed in the other two pools and all three are clothing optional.

The other four pools are located behind the lodge, situated on a concrete patio next to the river. Each of these four pools receives water from a geothermal well and can accommodate 4 to 6 people comfortably.

Officially referred to as the ‘spiral tubs’, these pools are rich in a diverse array of minerals. Adjacent to them is an 8th cedar tub pool, which contains cold water for a quick plunge. The average temperature of all seven hot pools ranges between 100°F and 110°F.

Lodging and Camping

Historic cabin lodging option at breitenbush
Stay in one of the historic cabins on the 154-acre campus. Photo by: Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat

There are a number of lodging accommodations provided at Breitenbush including rustic cabins from the 1930s, dorms, lodge rooms, camper vans, and tent sites. Some of these options are only available during certain seasons, so make sure to check before you make your reservation.

Additionally, some cabins come with and without plumbing, requiring guests to venture to the nearby bathhouses. There are different rates according to the day of the week as well as if there is a holiday, and children are given discounted pricing.

Note that cell phone service, wifi, and TV are not available to help you disconnect from the technological world.

Amenities

Individuals holding hands at an outdoor workshop at Breitenbush Hot Springs
Take part in one of the workshops offered throughout the year. Photo by: Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat

While staying at Breitenbush Hot Springs, take advantage of the campus’s amenities. Participate in one of the retreat workshops offered multiple times throughout the year or take a personal trip to reconnect with yourself. Get a massage, reflect in the sauna, or focus inwards while practicing yoga in ‘The Sanctuary’.

Venture out on one of several hiking trails in the Willamette National Forest or walk within the labyrinth, which is near the river. The scenic landscape and the sound of the water gushing nearby makes the labyrinth a great place to relax.

Reservations are required for any visit.

Aerial view of the walking labyrinth at Breitenbush Hot Springs
Walk the twists and turns of the labyrinth while looking inwards. Photo by: Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat

There is an organic vegetarian buffet that serves meals three times a day and is complimentary for any overnight stay. A bell sounds to let guests know when to eat and guests can request egg-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free options.

If you want to rejuvenate, relieve yourself of stress, and enjoy nature to its fullest, you should definitely visit Breitenbush Hot Springs.

Nearby Hot Springs

There are additional soaking options at Lower Breitenbush Hot Springs, just a short walk away.

If you have some spare time and want to stop by a few primitive hot springs in the area, check out:

Getting There

Beintenbush Hot Springs Retreat discourages guests from following any GPS map services, as Highway 224 becomes impassable from early fall to late spring. Multiple people get stranded on this road every year.

From Interstate 5 in Salem 

  1. Take exit 253 and follow OR-22 toward Detroit for nearly 50 miles.
  2. Turn onto Highway 46 located at the only gas station in Detroit. Make sure to fill up your tank!
  3. Continue for a little over 9 miles.
  4. A little past the Cleator Bend Campground take a right onto the bridge. It is a single-lane bridge so watch for other cars.
  5. Follow the gravel road and make a left at every fork you come across until you reach the parking lot.

From Redmond/Bend/ Sisters

  1. Follow OR-20/126 for nearly 26 miles.
  2. Make a right onto OR-22W.
  3. Proceed to “Step 2” in the section above.

Details

Address: 53000 Breitenbush Rd SE, Detroit, Oregon 97342

Phone: 503-854-3320

Season: Year-round; Highway 224 becomes impassable from early fall – late spring

Website: breitenbush.com