Sulphur Warm Springs – Darrington, Washington

Washington is bountiful when it comes to hot springs. There are developed pools and primitive ones all over the state. However, if you’re looking for the latter, Sulphur Hot Spring is the choice for you. Journeying out to Sulphur Creek Hot Springs is the perfect adventure for anyone who loves the outdoors. Beginning with a gorgeous hike through breathtaking scenery, to a private and natural hot spring, each visitor is sure to have a memorable experience.

Hiking Trail

The trail is actually the main adventure when you go to this location. Yes, the natural hot springs are still the treat, but the well-maintained trail is casually challenging and enjoyable.

There will be a mile of trekking along the path. Be mindful in following the path because, since Sulphur Hot Springs is not that popular, the trail is not as clear-cut as you may expect. Still, if you follow the route, it will lead you up to the hot springs. After the first mile, you will have to hike for a couple of minutes. It’s not that steep though. Then, you will see a log bridge. Once you reach this log, the trail becomes less formed, but you can follow the stone steps to find the pool. While doing the trail, you can bask in the incredible old trees that line up along the trail.

Hiking Tips

Visitors should consider bringing a stick to swipe away spiderwebs as they hike. This is a trail that is rarely used, and, as such, is not well kept. Be prepared to be climbing over fallen trees and through overgrown weeds and plants. It would be a good idea to bring long pants to protect legs from branches and the bushwhacking that you will most likely be doing.

Soak in the Mineral Water Pool

The hot spring itself is very small. It can fit just about 2 adult people – 3 if you count in at least one kid. It’s the perfect humble getaway for the family or a romantic bonding activity with your loved one. It’s intimate and that also makes this special. Since it’s not a main public hot spring nor a resort, few people visit here.

If by chance you get here with just you and your crew, you can enjoy some privacy that’s rarely afforded when you’re visiting other resorts and pools. The pool is small and the hot spring’s water temperature usually runs at 90 degrees F and will have a strong sulfur scent. It’s highly recommended to go here during the daytime. Once you’ve arrived, you may or may not find water in the hot spring. If it is empty, brush off the bottom, with a broom that stays by the hot springs, and open the pipe to allow water to spill out. It should take around 20 minutes for it to fill. Don’t be afraid to enjoy the tranquility and peace there. Reward yourself for the trek out with a long soak in the war water. It is not common for people to have to share the hot springs with anyone else. It’s a great locational for a romantic get-away or a fun adventure with the family.

Getting There

Finding the hot spring is half the fun. It is suggested to park on the road by Sulphur Creek Campground near Darrington, Washington. Start at the trailhead and hike towards the springs. It is recorded to be around a four-mile round trip. The trail is not well maintained and requires hikers to traverse all manner of fallen debris and overgrowth. This stunning area has dense forests and a lively ecosystem that you will be walking through. At around .7 miles, you will reach a fork in the road. Turn left. Follow the path until there is a log bridge. Cross the bridge and walk up stream for around .1 mile. Keep an eye out for stone steps that mark the hot spring. The hot spring is small and intimate. It is easy to miss. If you’re looking for a fun day trip to a hot spring, check out Sulphur Creek Warm Springs. You won’t regret finding this hidden treasure.

Details

Address: NF-26, Darrington, Washington 98241 GPS Coordinates: 48.2498, -121.1936 Phone: 360-436-1155 (USFS Darrington Ranger District) Season: Year-round