Bagby Hot Springs

Located in the dense wilderness of the Mount Hood National Forest, Bagby Hot Springs is one of the most popular hot springs in the State of Oregon. A Rustic Bath Facility built around the springs consists of many man-made hot tubs and pools. They are fed by the high-temperature, steamy water from the source nearby. This Classic Bath Consists of three separate bathhouses that house four wooden hot tubs, five cedar hot tubs, and a large pool. The Tourists visiting this place can choose from the variety of pools according to their requirements.

Bagby Hot Springs of Oregon

The Hot Springs have located nearby the Collawash River, and it offers spectacular views of the mighty river and the dense forest surrounding it. Soaking in these steamy hot tubs or pools, listening to the bird sounds and the wildlife nearby is an experience you will never forget. The Rustic Hot Springs looks like a magical place as it is located in the middle of a dense forest surrounded by the steams rising through the Hot Springs. There are also many hidden waterfalls nearby for you to visit. The Bagby Hot Springs is also called Mount Hood Hot Springs due to its location in the Mount Hood National Forest. Take a look at the pictures below, along with the tourist attractions and hiking trails.

The Hot Springs are open and accessible to people all year long. The Hot Springs can be reached only by an Outback Hiking Trail which is 4.8 km long. The Trail starting from the Campgrounds leads you to the Bagby Hot Springs through the dense wilderness. However, the trail is closed due to a raging wildfire nearby. Please, contact the Mt Hood National Forest Authorities before planning your trip. 

Location of Bagby Hot springs/Bagby Hot Springs Directions

These popular hot springs can be accessed from Salem City or West Woodburn Town or Glen Avon Town. From the Town of Glen Avon, head east for 0.3 miles on S Dickey Prairie Road. Turn Right and head follow for 0.2 miles, now take a left turn and continue onto S Molalla Forest Road.  Head Straight for 12.5 miles and continue onto Middlefork Road. Follow this road for 14.3 miles and turn right onto NF 7010 and follow the road for 11.3 miles which will lead you to a junction. Here in this Junction, take right onto NF 70 and head straight for 2.7 miles which will lead you to the Bagby Campgrounds.

 From West Wood Burn Town, take Highway 211 heading east towards the Town of Molalla from where follow the St. Feyrer Park Road leading to the S Dickey Prairie Road which leads you to the Glen Avon and follow the above-mentioned route. From Salem city head north onto I-5 Highway which will continue onto the State Highway 5 heading 16 miles towards the Town of West Woodburn.

Precautions to Take While Visiting Bagby Hot Springs

It is important for the people visiting Bagby Hot Springs to follow the necessary precautions to make their trips safer and more joyful.

Check for Forest Fires 

As the surrounding Mount Hood Forest where the Bagby Hot Springs resides is frequently destroyed by raging wildfires all year long. Please go through the Official Mount Hood Forest Website, where you can learn about the wildfires occurring.

Check Weather

It is highly advised to check the weather forecast for extreme weather alerts while visiting these hot springs located in the Dense Forest. The weather can often change abruptly in a matter of minutes.

Wash Beforehand

It is ideal to wash your body properly before entering these steamy pools. This process helps the Hot Tubs, and pools in the facility from getting contaminated.

Do Half Baths

As the temperature of the water in the Hot Springs is high, it is important to give some time to your body to adjust to the temperatures. Half Body Baths helps your body to soak in these steamy pools, without getting burnt, and severe muscle aches.

Don’t Overstay 

It is highly suggested to not stay longer in these hot steamy pools than necessary. The Steamy Pools cause excessive sweating which may cause Dehydration. Leave the Hot Tubs or Pools immediately if your face and neck are started to get sweating.

Drink Plenty of water

As said above, hot springs reduce our body’s water levels rapidly by excessive sweating, which can sometimes result in Dehydration. Drinking plenty of water helps you to boost your water levels.

Dry yourselves with a Towel

It is important to Dry yourselves with a towel instead of a bath after the Steamy Hot Spring bath. Because the Hot Springs consists of many essential minerals which offer various medicinal properties.

Sleep

After soaking in the Steamy Hot Springs bath, it is best suited to take a long comfortable nap to relax your body and to restore your energy levels which are spent on the Hot Springs.

History of Bagby Hot Springs

The Bagby Hot springs were first discovered by the Native Americans thousands of years ago. These Indigenous people considered the Hot Springs sacred and are meant for cleaning, and relaxing. The Hot Springs was later rediscovered by Bob Bagby, a hunter, and prospector in the year 1880. Due to his discovery, the hot springs gained the attention of tourists from all over the country, as a result, the Hot Springs are named after him. The United States Forest Service built a Guard Station of the same name nearby the Hot Springs in 1913. The site was innovated and renovated multiple times in the course of years. The Guard Station was mainly built to stop the spread of wildfires near the Hot Springs, as the area nearby is a Fire Hazard Area.

In the 1920s, a bathhouse was built here, unfortunately, it was burnt down by the raging wildfires in the year 1979. This prompted a group of volunteers to come along and join forces to build a bathhouse and maintain these hot springs. This group is popularly known as Friends Of Bagby (FOB).  Later, in the year 1983, the Forest service joined the group in building three new bathhouses here. However, since 2011, the site is being operated and maintained by a concessionaire who charges a fee of $5 per person a day for soaking in these pools or tubs in the bathhouse.

Tourist Attractions Nearby

Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area

A scenic location offering stunning views of the famous stunning Waterfalls of River Gorge, a Mighty River, Mountain ranges, and the surrounding thick lush green forest. The site is located at the border of Oregon and Washington States, as a result, it is a popular getaway for locals in both states. This popular destination has a stunning byway known as Historic Columbia River Highway, the route ascends through the mountains surrounding the gorge and offers alluring views of the multiple waterfalls located here. Being a popular destination, it attracts tourists from all over the world. The Tourists often love to take pictures on the Historic Bridge located near the Tallest Waterfalls in the State of Oregon known as Multnomah Waterfalls. 

Historic Columbia River Highway

This Historic Columbia River Highway is one of the most scenic passes located in the State of Oregon. The Famous scenic byway runs parallel to the mighty Columbia River and is almost 75 miles long. This popular highway is built between the Columbia River Gorge, and it runs from the town of Troutdale to the town of Dallas. The Highway is popular among tourists who love to go on a scenic long drive. It offers stunning views of the mighty Columbia River and its famed river gorge. Operated & Maintained by the Oregon Department of Transportation as Historic Columbia River Highway 100, it is a wonderful place to visit. The Rivers runs through many Sleepy Riverside towns, full of popular lodges and restaurants for you to stay and eat.

Trillium Lake

One of the most picturesque lakes is in the Mount Hood National Forest. The Lake is a popular tourist destination, and it is often posted across various social media platforms. The trillium lake is at a distance of 7.5 miles from the famed Mount Hood Peak, and it is visible from the summit as a Bluewater body surrounded by a sea of green. The Lake was formed historically from the headwaters from Mud Creek, during the construction of a Massive Dam in 1960 on the Mud Creek. It is also a widely known getaway for tourists all year long. There are many hiking trails nearby for you to hike and explore the wilderness, and a famous campground on the mud banks where you can set up your camps.

Mount Hood

The most popular active volcano after which the surrounding forests were named. The Mount Hood peak is at an elevation of 11,249 feet, and it offers alluring views of the Green Forests spread for hundreds of acres towards the horizon. Mount Hood Peak is visible as a Standalone peak covered with snow from the surrounding wilderness, and it is the home of 12 known glaciers and snowfields. This Tallest Mountain Peak in Oregon is often showcased on greeting cards and stamps in the State of Oregon. Apart from being an active volcano, Mount Hood is a popular Ski/ Snowboarding destination in the State of Oregon. Snowboarders/Skiers love to zip through the snow trails at greater speeds and encountering the magnificent green sea of surrounding forests.

Multnomah Waterfalls

Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in the state of Oregon, as the water cascades from a staggering height of 620 feet. The waterfalls are picturesque and are often visited by many tourists every year. These popular waterfalls can be accessed by the Famed Historic Columbia River Highway. The Water is on a gorge in the borders of Washington and Oregon. There are many hiking trails near the base of the waterfall that offer also offer stunning views of the waterfall from the surrounding forest. The Scenic Waterfall consists of a historic rusty bridge that overlooks the stunning waterfalls and is accessed by an outback trail that ascends to the Talus Slope where the bridge is located and descends back to the Observation Deck overlooking these waterfalls. 

Walking Trails Nearby

It is a popular activity here in the Mount Hood National Forest surrounding the Bagby Hot Springs. Many hiking trails are offering scenic views of the Hidden Natural Wonders. Here are a few for you to choose from.

Tamanawas Falls Hiking Trail

One of the top-rated hiking trails is located near Mount Hood Parkdale in the Mount Hood National Forest. The Hiking Trail is 5 km long, and it is suitable for only Hikers with Medium and Advanced Level skills. It features a popular waterfall known as Tamanawas Falls, after which the trail is named. The Trail is frequented by tourists from May to October, and it offers various activities like Trekking, Walking, Nature Trips, Running, Bird watching, Snowshoeing, Camping, Backpacking, and many more. The Trail is also a popular hotspot to witness wild animals in their natural habitat. 

Trillium Lake Loop Trail

Another popular trail is located near Government Camp in the Mount Hood National Forest.  The hiking trail is 3.1 km long, and it is looped. The Trail is suitable for all Tourists with or without Skills. The trail features a picturesque lake called Trillium lake, which the trail was named after. The Hiking Trail is frequented by tourists from May to October, and it undergoes seasonal closure during winter as the trail is filled with thick deep blanketed snows unable to pass through. The Trail offers many activities for tourists like Hiking, Fishing, Nature Trips, Camping, Backpacking, Running, Mountain Biking, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Walking, and encountering wildlife. This hiking trail is partly paved making it Kid and Stroller friendly.

Bagby Trail #544

If you want to explore the dense green forests surrounding the Bagby Hot Springs, this hiking trail might be ideal for you. The hiking trail is 34.1 km long, and it passes deep into the wilderness offering the gorgeous Mount Hood National Forest. The Trail is considered moderate, and it is best suited for Hikers with Medium and Advanced Level Skills. The Trail is the only pathway currently leading to Mount Hood Hot Springs or Bagby Hot springs, as the other short 4.8 km hiking trail is closed due to raging wildfires nearby the hot springs. It is highly advised to go through the Mount Hood National Forest Website to look for wildfires nearby while vising these trails or hot springs.

Activities Near Mount Hood Hot Springs

Bagby or Mount Hood Hot Springs offers various activities for you to participate in, while you are here. 

Walking

Hiking is often the most famous activity for the tourists visiting the Bagby Hot springs. It is an ideal way to explore the thick lush green forests surrounding Hot Springs. Most, importantly the Hiking Trails here lead to many hidden natural wonders of the Mount Hood National Forest. There is a vast number of trails near the Bagby Hot Springs for you to choose from. Many Tourists often visit these hiking trails to encounter wild animals far away from bustling cities in their natural habitat. Tamanawas Falls Hiking Trail, Mirror Lake Loop Trail, Bagby Trail #544, Trillium Lake Loop Trail, Mcneil Point Trail, Umbrella Falls Trail are some popular hiking trails nearby. 

Camping

Camping in these beautiful lush green forests, and encountering stunning views of Mount Hood Peak. In the distance and the surrounding wilderness is an experience you will never forget. As a result, it is also a popular activity near the Bagby or Mount Hood Hot springs. There are many popular campgrounds nearby that have various features and offer stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Camping in this location is ideal for explorers and tourists. It can be your base to visit the other popular attractions and hidden natural wonders nearby.

Snowboarding or Skiing

Mount Hood Peak is a popular getaway for winter skiers and snowboarders from all across the State of Oregon. The State of Washington as the second-largest city of Washington- Portland is located only 90 mins from Mount Hood Peak. A popular ski resort is located nearby Mount Hood Peak, known as Mt Hood Meadows Ski Resort. This facility offers rented ski/snowboarding equipment and accessories for all customers. The Facility also offers training for beginners provided by a Certified Snowboarder / Skier. Apart from Skiing/Snowboarding, the facility also offers private cabins and camping sites for you to spend your night. Night skiing is also popular here on Mount Hood. 

Driving

The Mount National Forest surrounding these Hot springs has many famous byways or passes. They are ideal for your long drives. These popular scenic drives can share the amazing vistas of the Mount Hood National Forest. Mount Hood Scenic Loop is the most popular one here. This byway connects the Mount Hood National Forest to Portland City. It is often alluring when you glance a peek at the many stunning waterfalls. The mighty rivers pass through the famed Columbia River Gorge. If you are traveling through the state of Oregon or Washington in an RV, Trailer, Van, etc., this highway might be best suited for you. The scenic highway also passes through many sleepy towns where you can eat or take a rest after a long drive.  

Hotels or Lodges Nearby

Bagby Hot Springs has many popular hotels nearby, as it is a popular destination.

Whispering Woods Resort

One of the popular lodges located in the Town of Welches is 29.4 miles from Bagby Springs. The lodge offers Non-smoking, Family rooms, and Luxury suites. The Hotel rooms offer features like Air-Conditioning, Private Balcony, Dish Washer, Microwave, Flat-screen TV, Kitchen, and Refrigerator. The lodge also has amenities such as a large swimming pool, golf course, spa, fitness center with workout rooms, and Free High-speed Internet Connection. 

Best Western Mt Hood Inn

This lodge is located in the town of Government Camp is 32.2 miles from the Bagby Hot Springs. The Hotel offers only Non-smoking rooms and Family rooms with various features like Air-Conditioning, Desk, Fire Place, House-Keeping, Microwave, Coffee/Tea Maker, Microwave, Cable/Satellite TV, Walkin Shower, Hair Dryer, Interconnected Rooms, Telephone, Wardrobe/Closet, Iron, Refrigerators and many more. Best Western Mt Hood Inn offers Free Parking Space, High-Speed Internet Connection, Shuttle Bus Service, Business Center, Meeting Rooms, and Conference Facilities, etc.

Restaurants Nearby

There are also popular restaurants nearby offering tasty food, multiple cuisines, and friendly service. 

Dar Essalam

This family-run restaurant offers American, Moroccan, and other middle eastern cuisines. They provide meal plans only for Lunch and Dinner. Dar Essalam is Vegetarian friendly. The restaurant has features like Takeout, Highchairs seating, Free parking, Table Service, and Wheelchair Accessibility.

 Harmony Baking Company

This popular restaurant located nearby Bagby Hot Springs provides cuisines for Americans and Café.  They offer meals for breakfast, lunch, and brunch. The restaurant has many features like Vegetarian-friendly diets, Free Parking, Wheelchair Accessibility, and Table service.

Conclusion

We highly recommend you to visit Bagby Hot Springs. The Hot Springs is easily accessible from nearby Towns or Cities in the State of Oregon. Also soaking in these rustic wooden hot tubs viewing the surrounding forests is an experience to behold. There are many tourists attractions nearby for you to visit, and they offer many activities for you to participate in. 

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)