Olympic Hot Springs starts out with a family-friendly hike that all ages can comfortably handle. 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 bridges and a beautiful waterfall known as Madison Falls seen below.
Natural Hot Springs Pool
The smell of sulfur will slightly offend yours 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 go on week days to avoid crowds. Only one out of five of the pools is large enough for more than three people. The Boulder Creek Campground is located half a mile away so it’s a natural attraction for the camping folks.
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 in to the 101. Take a left on N. Lincoln St when you get in to 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.
***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: Washington 98363
Season: May to October
Cost: $15 for a seven day National Park Pass at Ranger Station
Length of Trail: 20 Miles Round Trip
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort – Port Angeles, Washington