The Scenic Experience
The Scenic Hot Springs trailhead is located about 10 miles east of the town of Skykomish, and the Hot Springs themselves are at the end of a 2-mile uphill hike with 1100 feet of elevation gain.
Travel time from Seattle is about 2 hours, depending on traffic, so plan for a full day immersed in the wilderness. Pack extra clothing and layers, including snow or rain gear as needed. Sturdy shoes with good traction are essential for the hike. During winter months (December–April), snow clothing, footwear, and gear are required to navigate the snowy terrain safely. Pack extra food and plenty of water, as there is no potable water available onsite.
Plan your visit ➞
Each season brings new requirements for the hike up to the hot springs. During the winter, you are required to park in a different area and must be prepared for extreme winter weather conditions.
Spring
Cool, wet weather with melting snow and the transition from winter to early spring conditions (higher-elevation areas may still have snow).
Summer
Mild to warm temperatures, with mostly dry weather, beautiful waterfalls, and lush green landscapes.
Autumn
Cool, wet weather with fall foliage.
Winter
Cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and opportunities for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing, with the potential for challenging road conditions that require 4WD or chains.
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WHAT COMES NEXT?
WHAT COMES NEXT?
WHAT COMES NEXT?
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Review the Conditions of Access & FAQ
Complete the online reservation process
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Review your reservation confirmation and important information about how to prepare for your visit
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The Scenic Hot Springs trailhead is located about 10 miles east of the town of Skykomish, and the springs themselves are at the end of a steep 2-mile hike with 1100 feet of elevation gain. Detailed directions are provided upon booking a reservation.
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Yes, reservations are required in order to visit this private property. Caretakers patrol the property daily to ensure all visitors have reservations.
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A public visit to the springs requires a trail use fee of $30-35/person (depending on the season), and you’ll be sharing the pools with other visitors.
Or, you may reserve the springs exclusively for your group for $450 (Fall-Winter: 15 people max) or $300-350 (Spring-Summer: 10 people max).
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We do not issue refunds for inclement weather. In the event of a highway closure that prevents access to the property, reservation holders will be given an opportunity to reschedule
Public Access Policy
➞ 14 days or more before the date of your reservation: full refund or free rescheduling
➞ Within 4-13 days of the date of your reservation: 50% refund or free rescheduling
➞ 72 hours or less before the date of your reservation: no refund, no rescheduling
Private Access Policy
➞ 14 days or more before the date of your reservation: full refund or free rescheduling
➞ Within 6-13 days of the date of your reservation: 50% refund or free rescheduling
➞ 5 days or less before the date of your reservation: no refund, no rescheduling
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This is a moderate-difficult hike with continuous elevation gain. The path climbs gradually for the first half, and then steepens significantly during the second half, with the most difficult section in the last ⅓ mile before the springs. It's not a long hike, under 2 miles each way, but the elevation gain will get you a good workout by the time you reach the hot springs.
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Prepare for a full day in the wilderness, with extra clothing/layers, rain gear, extra food, and extra water. There is no potable water onsite—you need to bring your own. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction. In the winter months (December-April), you’ll need additional gear including snow clothing, waterproof boots, and snowshoes/skis.
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Visitors are permitted between the hours of dawn and dusk—daylight hours only. County regulations prohibit visitation at night. Your reservation confirmation will provide the exact times you are permitted to visit.
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No, the property is closed to visitation at night. This is a county-mandated regulation that we strictly enforce. Caretakers patrol the property daily to ensure all visitors comply with this rule. We also have trail cameras monitoring the area to help visitors safely use the trail.
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Scenic Hot Springs features two distinct springs: “Lobster” and “BearDen.” The outflow temperature at Lobster remains steady between 48-50°C/118-122°F, while Bear Den Springs typically measures around 44-46°C/111-114°F. These levels have hardly changed since their initial measurements were in 1896. During summer, the water feels warmer because of higher ambient temperatures, whereas in autumn and winter, cooler weather makes the pool seem less warm. In winter, sudden snowmelt or flooding can send extra rainwater into the hot spring system via groundwater, speeding circulation, and briefly lowering the water temperature. This effect usually resolves within a few days, though occasionally it can persist for up to a week. Since this is a natural and unpredictable occurrence, arrangements for visitors are handled individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Details about arrival time and time limits are provided in the reservation process.
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No, dogs are not allowed on the property. Pets at the springs are in violation of county health code. This is a legal requirement that we strictly enforce.
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Mountain bikes are allowed. Motorized and electric vehicles are prohibited.
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Scenic is a hot spring for adult hikers and is not a family-friendly facility due to its remote location. Unless they are experienced hikers, we do not recommend bringing children under 14.
Children under the age of six (6) are not allowed. Young children do not have a fully developed thermoregulatory system, making soaking in the hot temperatures of the hot springs a potential danger of hyperthermia or heat stroke with few warning signs.
Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian. Parents or guardians are responsible for controlling the behavior of their children.
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Clothing is optional.
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The parking area is located on a steep driveway off Highway 2. Space is limited. Caretakers patrol the parking area daily to ensure all vehicles are registered. Unauthorized vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.
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During most of the year (May-November), parking at the trailhead is accessible to all vehicles. In the winter months (December-April), 4WD or tire chains may be required to travel safely along Highway 2 and/or park in the winter parking area. Check WSDOT road conditions in advance to plan your visit.
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No, neither the trail to the springs nor the springs themselves are located in avalanche paths.
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The property is primitive and remote, with one toilet and one changing room. There is no garbage service. Pack it in, pack it out, and please follow the principles of Leave No Trace.
Book Your Soak
Book Your Soak
Book Your Soak
Reservations
To visit Scenic Hot Springs, you must make a reservation in advance. Walk-ins are not permitted.
➞ PUBLIC ACCESS: Share the springs with other visitors.
➞ PRIVATE ACCESS: Reserve the springs exclusively for your group.
➞ Scenic Hot Springs is a minimally developed facility with two natural stone pools. We accept reservations only from visitors who understand this undeveloped landscape.
➞ Reservations are limited each day to preserve and protect our natural haven. Your support ensures the maintenance of our historic trails and pristine hot springs. By making a reservation and following our rules, you help us continue providing this experience for generations to come.
➞ Review all our terms and conditions before booking your visit, then pack and prepare appropriately.
Private Property
Scenic Hot Springs is privately owned, and we are not required to grant access to anyone. To make a reservation, you must agree to our terms and conditions. Respect the property and follow the guidelines to ensure a harmonious experience for all.
Safety and Preparedness
Be prepared for rugged terrain, changing weather conditions, and steep trails. Wear appropriate clothing; pack extra food, water, and supplies; and always bring necessary equipment like snowshoes or crampons during winter visits.
Book Your Soak
Book Your Soak
Book Your Soak
Important Points
The Scenic Hot Springs trailhead is located about 10 miles east of the town of Skykomish, and the hot springs themselves are at the end of a 2-mile uphill hike with 1100 feet of elevation gain. This is a challenging hike that requires adequate fitness and appropriate outdoor clothing & equipment.
➞ Travel time from Seattle is approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
➞ Do not leave valuables in plain sight and be sure to lock up your vehicle.
➞ NO PETS ALLOWED. Due to county health regulations, pets are prohibited on the Scenic Hot Springs property. Visitors with pets will be escorted off the property immediately, and local authorities will be alerted if pet owners are not cooperative.
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