Located near Port Angeles, Washington, Olympic Hot Springs starts with a long hike through the alpine forest. The path is wide with an elevation change of 3,100′ and approximately 10 miles long (20 miles out and back).
Along the way, you will cross a couple of bridges and a beautiful waterfall known as Madison Falls seen below. It’s located within Olympic National Park and is open from May to October.
Natural Hot Springs Pool
The smell of sulfur will slightly offend your nasal capacity as you come upon the hot springs, but don’t let that turn you around because things are about to get fun. Once you arrive, there will be a series of different pools at various temperatures to enjoy with the hottest reaching 118 degrees Fahrenheit.
The first few pools are rather shallow at lukewarm temperatures. The deeper pools will be where you find the most visitors.
Plan on arriving early or going on weekdays to avoid crowds. Only one out of five of the pools is large enough for more than three people. While there is no camping on-site by any of the hot spring pools, the Boulder Creek Campground is located half a mile away so it’s a natural attraction for the camping folks.
Most soakers access the springs via the Appleton Pass Trailhead. This trail runs 15.4 miles roundtrip with the Olympic Hot Springs found near the trail.
Getting There
From Seattle – Take the 5 north up to Woodway, cross the Sound, and link up with the 104 heading west. Continue along the 104 toward Discovery Bay and then bear right as it turns into the 101. Take a left on N. Lincoln St when you get into Port Angeles Harbor which will keep you on the 101.
Continue on the 101 for another 8.6 miles and then take a left on Olympic Hot Springs Road.
Note: Before you go, check with the Washington Trail Association to verify the path is open as it can be washed out from time to time.
Details
Address: Olympic National Park, Port Angeles, Washington, 98363
Season: May to October
Cost: Fee for a seven-day National Park Pass at Ranger Station
Length of Trail: 20 Miles Round Trip
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