A Rare Gem in a National Park

You won’t find many hot springs inside a national park, which is exactly what makes Sol Duc Hot Springs such a standout. Tucked into the dense, mossy forests of Olympic National Park in Washington State, this place is more than just a soak—it’s a full-on wilderness escape.

Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort sits on the north end of the park, surrounded by big trees, river valleys, and miles of hiking trails. The resort itself offers comfortable cabins, campsites, and access to natural mineral pools, making it a great home base for exploring the Sol Duc Valley.

The Springs

There are three mineral hot spring pools and one freshwater pool on site. Each pool has a different vibe and temperature:

• Small mineral wading pool – 6–8 inches deep and around 99°F (37°C), good for kids or a quick dip.
• Medium mineral pool – 3 feet deep and about 104°F (40°C), warm and cozy.
• Large mineral fountain pool – also 3 feet deep, a bit cooler at 101°F (38°C), and wheelchair accessible.
• Freshwater pool – 3 to 10 feet deep, temp ranges from 50°F to 85°F depending on the season. Also accessible.

Whether you’ve just come in from a soggy day of hiking or want to warm up after exploring the coast, slipping into one of these pools is about as good as it gets.

Staying at the Resort

The resort has 32 cabins (most sleep up to four people) and 17 RV sites. There’s also a restaurant on-site, a small grocery store, a gift shop, and a spa if you really want to settle in.

It’s open from late March to late October, but it’s smart to check ahead for exact dates and hours. You can even pay your park entrance fee at the resort if the station at the gate is closed.

Reservations are recommended—especially on weekends and holidays. Call 1-888-896-3818 or book online through the Olympic National Parks website.

Hiking and Nearby Attractions

Right outside your cabin door are some of the park’s best trails. One of the highlights is Sol Duc Falls, a powerful, multi-stream waterfall that’s an easy and popular hike from the resort. For those wanting to explore more, the trails around here offer deep forest solitude, river access, and occasional wildlife sightings.

A Little Bit of Background

Sol Duc Hot Springs has been drawing visitors since the early 1900s. The original resort was destroyed by fire in 1916, and what stands today was rebuilt decades later. Though the setup is modern, the mineral water is the same—naturally sourced, heated underground, and loaded with minerals that have long been valued for their soothing properties.

Know Before You Go

Cell service is spotty or non-existent, so don’t count on your phone. Bring what you need, respect the natural setting, and don’t forget your towel.

If you’re the kind of person who likes their hot springs wild but still appreciates a soft bed, a hot meal, and a well-earned soak—Sol Duc delivers.