Olympic Hot Springs

These hot springs are a popular destination for visitors from all over the world, but there are a number of interesting stops along the way. Consider the 0.1 mile trail to the beautiful Madison Creek Falls, a picnic stop along the Elwha River, and an incredible look at the site of the former dam at Glines Canyon. The road to the trailhead is mostly paved, with some rough and narrow sections but it is suitable for all cars. At the trailhead, you'll find a vault toilet and plenty of parking for both cars and horse trailers.

This hike is more of a road walk. The path is wide and smooth and would be good for hikers of all ages. At 2 miles, the road narrows and you will see where the Crystal Creek suspension bridge washed out.

Cross the log bridge and head uphill for 0.1 miles to the junction for Boulder Creek campground. Use the outhouse if you need it and take the trail down to the left. After another quarter mile, you will cross the bridge over Boulder Creek. Take a moment to snap some pictures of the beautiful creek and admire the hard work of the bridge builders.  

Once you're on the other side, you're in hot spring territory. Some pools are right along the trail, others are a bit more secluded. When you find one you like, be sure to test the temperature; some can be as high as 118 degrees.

The National Park Service warns that these pools "are not monitored or maintained and may contain high levels of fecal coliform bacteria".  This doesn't stop hot spring lovers from enjoying a soak in their bathing suit or birthday suit.