Olympic Hot Springs Trail

What to expect

This is a long, commit-or-skip kind of day. Due to road washouts in the Elwha Valley, you’ll park at Madison Falls and travel about 8 miles each way on the closed Olympic Hot Springs Road (walk or bike) just to reach the Boulder Creek/Olympic Hot Springs Trailhead. From there, it’s another roughly 2.4–2.5 miles each way on a mostly flat, wide trail to the springs. Plan on about 21 miles total round trip. The payoff: a cluster of natural, undeveloped hot-spring pools tucked in the forest near Boulder Creek.

The approach and scenery

The road approach follows the Elwha River through forested foothills with a steady but gentle grade. It feels remote and a bit wild—expect weathered pavement, debris, and occasional water across the road. Make time for the Glines Canyon viewpoint along the way; it’s a striking look at the Elwha River restoration following the historic dam removal. After you reach the trailhead, the hiking section is mostly flat but can include water channels and old washouts, plus about three notable creek crossings.

The soak

The Olympic Hot Springs are natural pools scattered off the main path. Temperatures and sizes vary, and the main pool can be busy while smaller, more private pools hide nearby. These pools are completely unmaintained. Expect algae, murky bottoms, and a rustic feel. Common etiquette applies—share space, and know that some visitors soak nude. For health, avoid submerging your head.

Season and timing

Best window is late spring through early fall (roughly April–October) when water levels and snow/ice are lower and the approach is more straightforward. Start early: the day is long, and the main pools fill by afternoon. In winter and early spring, expect ice, snow, and higher, trickier creek crossings.

Tips, access, and rules

• Bikes are allowed on the closed road up to Boulder Creek TH—bring a lock and stash the bike before hiking to the springs.
• Bring the 10 essentials; there are no services past Madison Falls.
• Waterproof footwear and trekking poles help with creek crossings and soggy sections.
• The area functions like backcountry: day use needs no permit, but overnight camping requires a wilderness permit. A park entrance fee applies.
• Pets are not allowed on this trail.

Is it worth it?

If you’re chasing a true backcountry soak and don’t mind a hefty approach, yes. The long road walk/bike keeps this experience quieter than you’d expect, and the Elwha’s dam-removal story adds real depth. If you want a short hike to a dramatic payoff, look elsewhere—this one rewards patience and preparation.