Olympic Hot Springs

Olympic Hot Springs are some Famous Hot Springs located in the pristine wilderness of the Olympic National Park in the State of Washington. The Hot Springs are located in between a ravine between two mountains in the Olympic National Park. They consist of seven pools and all are of similar sizes. However, the depths and temperatures of the steamy pools vary.

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Why are the Olympic Hot Springs so Popular?

The Olympic Hot Springs is considered to be sacred and were popularly used by the Klallam Tribes that inhabited this land for centuries. The pools are firstly known to the outside world because of Andrew Jacobson who discovered these hidden hot springs in the year 1892 with the help of a Khlallam tribe member. A resort was built here in 1907, and it was maintained by William Everett after he rediscovered these Hot Spring pools. The Everetts maintained this facility until 1966 after which it was forced to shut down due to the expiry of the lease between the resort and the Olympic National Park. After which the buildings in the resort were completely removed from the premises. 

Location of Olympic Hot Springs

The  Hot Springs is near Boulder Creek in the Elwha Valley of California. The Hot Springs can be accessed easily from the City of Port Angeles. From Port Angeles take the State Highway 101 towards the Olympic Hot Springs for almost 17 miles. Take a left onto the Olympic Hot Springs Road and drive for almost a mile which will lead you to the Appleton Trailhead. 

The City of Port Angeles has good flight connectivity with other major cities across the United States of America. The city can also be reached by train and bus services.

Best Time to Visit Olympic Hot Springs

Winter is the best time to visit the Hidden Hot Springs. The Elwha road leading to the Hot Springs can be closed due to thick blankets of snow which may result in an additional hike of 7 or more km to reach the TrailHead. However, the Hot Springs are open all year long. During Summer, the pools are submerged and in other seasons the Murky and Unclean water is not ideal for soaking.

Tourist Attractions Nearby Olympic Hot Springs

If you are planning to visit Olympic Hot Springs, there are many other tourist attractions nearby for you to visit.

Remember, Rules Are There for a Reason

Now the pools are covered with boulders all around and are maintained by the park. Due to which there might be a higher chance of getting infections due to the Unclean water. However, the pools with higher temperatures are free of bacteria and are ideal for you to relax. Moreover, Olympic Hot Springs is accessible only by a hiking trail that is 2.5 km long and is called Appleton Hiking Trail. Furthermore, it is strictly advised to Wilderness Camping Regulations while you are here and also get a Wilderness Use Permit right before your trip. You can book your permit through their web portal in advance for affordable rates. 

Sol Duc Hot Springs

These Hot Springs are also in the Olympic Hot Springs State Park. Sol Duc Hot Springs is at a distance of 12 miles from the Olympic Hot Springs and is owned and maintained by a Private institution. These hot springs are closer to the highway and are accessible easily. As a result, it has become the most popular one soon after it was discovered. The Hot Springs facility owned by a private resort consists of four steamy pools with varying temperatures and sizes. Tourists flock to these Hot Springs all year long and as a result, the resort is often crowded. However, due to the availability of multiple pools, you can be assured that you will be able to soak in these steamy pools on any day. 

Olympic National Forest

This Forest is spread across a large area of 628,115 acres in the State of Washington. The forest surrounds the popular Olympic National Park and the Olympic Mountain ranges. It is surrounded by sea on three sides, and it is on the peninsula at the border of the United States and Canada. The forest is filled with many nature’s wonders like hidden waterfalls, Thick green rainforest, Huge rivers snaking through it, Mountain peaks offering spectacular views of the Surroundings, and many more. Due to its remote locations and wilderness, it is often the best location to witness wildlife in its natural habitat. The forest is also home to many Hiking Trails and Campgrounds, and they are ideal ways to explore the surrounding wilderness and encounter stunning views.

Crescent Lake

It is one of the hardest lakes to reach due to its isolated location deep in the wilderness of Olympic National Forest. The lake is deep due to which it has been a popular hotspot for widely known fishes of Washington. And also wild animals like Brown Bears, Black Bears, Deers, etc are often sighted at the shores of this hidden lake. Air Taxis are the only possible transportations that can be used to visit this lake. Due to its location further into the wilderness, there are also many popular hiking trails like Spruce Railroad trail, Pyramid Mountain trail, Barnes Creek trail, etc nearby which allow you to explore nature all around you. People from all over the country visit this lake due to its pristine Flora and Fauna. Fishing is also a popular activity here. 

Marymere Waterfalls

These famed falls are near Crescent Lake in the Olympic National Park. The falls are 90 feet in height and are on the Aurora edge bordering both Falls Creek and Barnes Creek. Due to its location nearby Crescent Lake, it can be reached by a popular hiking trail known as Marymere Falls hiking trail. The hiking trail is 2.7 km long, and it is considered to be easy and suitable for Trekkers with various levels of hiking skills. The waterfalls look stunning in between the surrounding green forests. The trail is also frequented by people for various purposes like Hiking, Trekking, Nature Trips, Walking, etc. 

Hoh River

This river is popular among tourists from all over the United States due to its unique turquoise color. The river originates from Hoh and Blue Glaciers which are located on the famed Mount Olympus amid Hot National Forest. The river was considered to be sacred to the Hoh Tribes who live here and which also led the tribes to go to battles against the explorers during the 18th century and even capturing their men and releasing them for ransom. Now the forest surrounding the river is converted into a recreational area for Nature reserves and parks. The river is an excellent location for white water rafting due to its turbulent nature and also a famous fishing spot due to many widely known fishes like Salmon, Steelhead, and various species of trout, etc calling this river their home. 

Hurricane Ridge

This is one of the most popular places often frequented by tourists in the Olympic State Park. The ridge is a mountain terrain located in a national forest offering spectacular views of the mountain peaks, green valleys below, and the surrounding forests. The Mountainous terrain often adores itself with radiant colors during the Sun rising and setting offering Picturesque views. The ridge being a popular destination is accessible by a popular hiking trail and there are also many hiking trails nearby for you to explore. Camping is also a popular activity here due to the abundance of multiple campgrounds offering alluring views of the surrounding wilderness.

Precautions to Take While Visiting Hot Springs

Check Weather

It is often recommended that you check the weather forecasts before visiting these locations. As the weather here can abruptly alter in a matter of seconds. 

Don’t Venture Off-Trails

It is important to not venture out of the trails while exploring the forest or heading towards the hidden gems like Waterfalls, Mountain peaks, and Natural Hot Springs, etc. Leaving the trails may increase the chances of you getting lost or sometimes injured.

Watch Your Step

It is ideal to watch where you step while exploring the forests. This helps you to assess the obstacles beforehand and find ways to overcome them easily and safely. It also helps you not to step onto any dangerous predators like snakes which often venture into the trails.

Carry a Map

It is necessary to carry a geographical map of the trail or the pathway you have to take to visit the Hidden tourist attractions located amid the forests. This map helps you to understand your pathway better and helps you to reach the location safely without getting lost.

Pack All Essential Accessories

It is often important to carry essential equipment like Flashlights, Food or snacks, Drinkable water, Match sticks, Swiss knives, etc when you plan to visit these locations. 

Plan Your Trip in Advance

It is highly suggested to plan your trip months. This process helps you to understand the best time, and locations you can visit while you are here. It also helps to make your journey safe and fulfilling.

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Camping Sites Near Olympic Hot Springs

Olympic Hot Springs Camping is also a popular activity for tourists visiting from all over the United States. As a result, many famous campgrounds are offering several essential features at an affordable rate.

Sol Duc Group Campground

Sol Duc Group Campground is named after the popular Sol Duc Hot Springs located in the Olympic National Park. The campground has many features like Drinkable Water, Valet Toilets, a Pet-Friendly area, and Electricity. The campsite has a large parking space which is suitable for parking Vans, Trailers, Trucks and RV’s or setting up of tents. The campsite is located closer to the Sol Duc Hot Springs Private Resort and is often an ideal location to participate in various activities like Boating, Fishing, Hiking, White water Rafting/ Kayaking, Horseback riding, Wildlife watching, and Snowsports like Skiing or Snowboarding.

Kalaloch Campground

Kalaloch Campground is located in the Olympic National Forest. The campsite is popular among tourists due to its various essential features like Potable Water, Picnic Table, Toilets, etc. The Campsite is often used as a base while visiting popular attractions like Natural Hot Springs, Swimming Hole, and a Hidden Waterfall. The Campsite has 161 spaces suitable for setting up of camps or to park Vans, Trucks, Campers, Trailers and RV’s. You can often participate in various activities like Hiking, Fishing, Horseback Riding, White Water Rafting/ Kayaking, and many more while you are here in Kalaloch Campground.

South Beach Campground

This is one of the unique campgrounds in the Olympic National Park due to its location on the South Beach sharing a stunning look at the Pacific Ocean spreading towards the Horizon. The Campsite has 55 sites for Setting up your tents or parking your Vans, Trailers, RV’s, etc. The campsite offers spaces on First Come and First Service basis. The Site features Picnic Tables, Valet Toilets, Pet-Friendly Spaces, Running Water, and Electricity. 

Hoh Campground

This popular Campground is also located in the pristine wilderness of Olympic National Forest. Surrounding the park, it is also called Hoh National forest due to its location along the Hoh River. The Campsite lets you breathe in a way like no other as you wander along the Hoh River as it snakes through the forest and disappears behind a turn in the distance. The Site offers 88 spaces for setting down your camps or Vans, Campers, and RVs.  The Campground also offers various essential amenities like Potable Water, Picnic tables, Toilets, and Electricity. Due to its location along the Hoh river, it is also a popular location offering various activities like Fishing, White Water Rafting/Kayaking, etc.

Staircase Campground

This hidden campground is located deep into the wilderness of Olympic National Forest near the Skokomish River. Due to its remote location, it is often the ideal place to explore the forest and encounter wild animals in their natural environment. The campsites offer various essential features like Potable Water, Electricity, Campfires, Picnic Tables, etc. The Campground has 47 camp spaces which are suitable for either setting up their tents or parking their Vans, Trucks, and RV’s. Staircase Campground is best suited for people looking forward to participating in activities like Exploring Nature, Encountering Wildlife.

Hiking Trails Nearby Olympic Hot Springs

 Hiking in the surrounding wilderness of Olympic National Park is also a favorite activity for the Tourists visiting Olympic Hot Springs. Many popular trails are located in this park and they offer stunning views of Hidden gems of the Olympic National Forest.

Mount Storm King Hiking Trail

This trail is one of the toughest trails located in the Olympic National Park. The trail offers stunning views of the Mountains, a blue lake, and a mighty river flowing through the canyons. The Hiking Trail is 8.5 km long and is considered to be hard and is suitable for only hikers with advanced skills. It is required to get a permit pass from Olympic National Park authorities before the trip. The trail is often frequented by tourists for various activities like Hiking, Walking, Nature Trips, and Encountering Wildlife.

Hoh Rain Forest Hall of Moss Hiking Trail

This hiking trail leads you to one of the most hidden natural wonders known as the Hall of Moss located in the middle of Coastal Rain Forest. The trail is 1.8 km long and it is considered to be easy and ideal for Hikers with Basic, Medium, and Advanced Skills. The trail is partially paved and it is often an ideal location to participate in various activities like Hiking, Camping, Walking, Bird Watching, Nature trips, etc. Trekking through these hidden hiking trails hidden located in the midst of a Coastal Rainforest is an experience like no other.

Hole in the Wall From Rialto Beach Hiking Trail

This is another unique hiking trail near the Famous Rialto Beach in the Olympic National Park. The trail runs through Rialto Beach offering scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. The Hiking Trail is 5.3 km long. It is considered moderate and it is suitable only for Hikers with Medium and Advanced skills. Pets are strictly prohibited in this Hiking trail. This trail is often frequented by tourists for various activities like Hiking, Forest Trips, Visiting Hidden Beaches.

High Divide and Seven Lakes Basin Loop Trail

High Divide and Seven Lakes Basin Loop Trail is one of the longest trails in the Olympic National Forest. The trail is 30.6 km long. It is considered to be hard and is suitable only for people with Advanced Hiking Skills. It offers stunning views of the lake in a canyon between the Mountain tops high in the Mountain ranges. The trail is frequently used by visitors for Hiking, Backpacking, Walking, Nature trips and Fishing in the lake, etc. Hiking Trail is ideal for visiting from April to October.

Devil’s Punch Bowl via Spruce Railroad Hiking Trail

Another easy trail is located in the Olympic National Park along the banks of Hidden Crescent Lake. The trail features a wooden bridge and a deep lake. The Hiking Trail is 3.9 km long and is considered to be easy. It is ideal for Hikers with Basic, Medium, and Advanced skills. Hiking Trail allows you to participate in various activities like Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, Running, Walking, etc. The trail is paved and it is the only Stroller Friendlytrail located nearby Olympic Hot Springs. Pets are also allowed into this trail but must be kept on a leash.

Accommodations near Olympic Hot Springs

Olympic Hot Springs is located in Olympic State Park which is popular among the Tourists visiting the State Of Washington. Due to this, there are many famous lodges nearby for you to stay.

Kalaloch Lodge 

This is one of the top-rated hotels located in the Olympic National Park winning prestigious awards like the Travellers Choice Award. This eco-friendly hotel also has Green Leaders Gold level Certification which means the hotel has Organic Toiletries, Linen reuse program, Water Composition, Water-efficient bathroom fixtures, Biodegradable toiletries, and Leftover materials are Donated or Re-used. Kalaloch Lodge offers three types of rooms as Ocean-view rooms, Non-smoking rooms, and Family rooms. The Hotel rooms have various features like Seating Area, Sofa, Wake-up Service, Coffee/Tea maker, Kitchen, Microwave, Refrigerator, and a Hairdryer.  The lodge also offers various Luxury amenities like Free Parking Space, Own Bar/Lounge, Private Beach Access, Gift Shop, Convenience Store, and Kid-friendly play area.

Lake Crescent Lodge

This popular hotel was opened in the year1975 and is on the banks of Crescent lake. This lodge is the only hotel in the remote wilderness of the Olympic National Park nearby Crescent Lake. As a result, it is frequented by tourists all year long. The Hotel offers two types of rooms as Non-smoking and Family rooms with various features like Private Balcony, Flatscreen TV, Housekeeping, Flatscreen TV, and High-Speed Internet Access(WIFI). Lake Crescent Lodge offers several luxury amenities like Free Parking Space, Free Internet Access, Baggage Storage, Private Beach Access, and Own Bar/Lounge.

Rain Forest Resort Village

Rain Forest Resort Village, true to its name, is at the banks of Quinault lake and in the midst of the surrounding Quinault National Rainforest. The lodge offers non-smoking rooms with a Private Balcony, Flat-screen TV, Wake-up service and a Comfy Bed, etc. The hotel offers free parking space for all the customers. Rainforest Resort Village also offers various luxury amenities like its own Salmon House Restaurant, Gift shop, Convenience Store, and Free High-Speed Internet Access. The lodge also offers scenic boat tours of Quinault lake.

Restaurants nearby Olympic Hot Springs

There are also many famous restaurants in the Olympic State Park offering Tasty, Healthy, and Nutritious food, Friendly Service, and Value.

Hama Hama Oyster Saloon 

One of the best hotels in Olympic State park is located near the Town of Lilliwaup. This popular restaurant is famous for its Seafood options and American Cuisine. This Outdoor seating restaurant is located very close to the ocean. The restaurant offers a Special diet for Gluten-free foodies. Hama Hama Oyster Saloon offers various features like Take-out, Free-Off Street Parking, Waterfront views, Live Music, etc. The Restaurant accepts payment through American Express, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and Credit cards. Wheelchairs are available here.

Salmon House Restaurant

The next popular hotel in the Olympic State Park after the Hama Hama Oyster Saloon. The restaurant offers two types of Cuisines American and SeaFood. There is a special diet for Vegetarians and Gluten Free Customers. Salmon House offers meals only for Dinner. It also has various features like Waterfront, Free Parking, High Seating Chairs, Serves Alcohol and Takeout. Wheelchairs are also available here. The restaurant is a part of Rainforest Resort Village.

Lake Crescent Lodge Restaurant

This restaurant is located on the banks of Crescent Lake in Olympic State Park. The restaurant only offers American Cuisines and also special diets for Vegetarian, Gluten-Free Customers.  Meals can be reserved for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and even Brunch!

Lake Crescent Restaurant features a Full Bar that serves Alcohol. It also has various features like Free Parking, Highchairs Seating, and Reservations.

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Conclusion

It is highly recommended to visit Olympic Hot Springs located in the State of California. The Hot Springs are located in the Olympic State Park and are accessible through an easy hiking trail. However, remember to soak into the pools with higher temperatures as there are fewer chances of bacteria surviving in them. There are also popular tourist attractions nearby for you to visit. You can also participate in a lot of activities while you are here. There are also many popular hotels and restaurants nearby for you to eat and spend the night.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)