Olympic Hot Springs

A local favorite, this moderate day hike winds its way uphill from the Appleton Pass trailhead through old growth stands of fir, hemlock and cedar for 2.2 miles to a cluster of hot springs interspersed among the trees. Note: This route is now closed due to a washed out road. The current route is via the Madison Falls Trailhead.

Located in the Olympic National Park, the trailhead lies at the end of Olympic Hot Springs Road, several miles above the old Glines Canyon Dam (now removed).

The hike itself consists mostly of a long abandoned road that has since converted into a broad trail. The old asphalt has been removed and replaced with shredded wood to encourage plant growth, making for a smooth and pleasant path.

As you near the hot springs, the old roadway gives way to narrower trail. Here you will cross a newly-built suspension bridge at Crystal Creek. At the top of the slope after the bridge, you'll enter a flat meadow (once a parking lot). Bear right at the fork and follow your nose to the hot springs. Keep an eye out on both sides of the trail, as some of the best pools are tucked away among the trees.

Camping is also available at Boulder Creek Campground adjacent to the hot springs.

Note that the NPS does not monitor the water quality of the hot springs.