Goldmyer Hot Springs

## Overview Goldmyer Hot Springs is a remote, geothermally heated natural spring tucked deep into the Cascade Range, roughly 25 miles east of North Bend, Washington. Situated within a privately managed 20-acre wilderness reserve along the Upper Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Valley, Goldmyer is one of the few natural hot springs in the Puget Sound region — and one of the most rewarding to reach. The hot springs emerge from a cave in a rock face, with geothermal water reported to have a pH between 8.5 and 9.3. Unlike many hot springs in the Pacific Northwest, Goldmyer is not known for a strong sulfur smell, making the soaking experience especially pleasant. Water temperatures in the main soaking pools vary, with the hottest water found closest to the cave source. Several hand-built soaking pools of varying temperatures line the rock wall below the cave opening. The surrounding forest is classified as late-seral old growth — a largely undisturbed ecosystem featuring multi-layered canopies, large-diameter trees of varying heights, and natural canopy gaps that support rich biodiversity. The area is ecologically significant and carefully protected. Goldmyer Hot Springs is managed by the Northwest Wilderness Programs, a Washington State non-profit organization founded in 1976. Access is by reservation only, and the number of visitors is limited each day to protect the fragile environment. A modest fee or donation is required to support the upkeep of the reserve — the organization reports that 95% of funds go directly to charitable and conservation causes. Visitors are expected to pack in everything they need and pack out all trash, following strict Leave No Trace principles. ## Directions 1. **Start in North Bend, WA.** Head east on I-90 and take Exit 34 for 468th Avenue SE / Middle Fork Road (also known as Forest Road 56). 2. **Follow Middle Fork Road** northeast for approximately 12–13 miles. The road is partially paved but transitions to gravel; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially in wet conditions. Road conditions can vary seasonally — check current status before heading out. 3. **Park at the Dingford Creek Trailhead** (or the designated Middle Fork trailhead area). The GPS coordinates for the springs are approximately 47.48269, -121.7364508. 4. **Hike approximately 4.5 miles** along the Middle Fork Trail to reach the Goldmyer Hot Springs reserve. The trail is mostly flat to gently rolling but can be muddy and rough in places, particularly after rain. Allow roughly 2–3 hours each way. 5. **Reservations are required** before visiting. Contact the Northwest Wilderness Programs in advance to secure your spot and receive the most current access instructions, including any gate codes needed for the road. *Note: Road and trail conditions change seasonally. The access road has historically been subject to washouts and closures, so always verify conditions before your trip.* ## What to Expect Goldmyer Hot Springs is a true backcountry destination — there are no paved paths, no gift shops, and no developed facilities beyond basic campsites and the soaking pools themselves. Visitors should come prepared with camping gear, food, and drinking water for the duration of their stay. The soaking pools are carved into and along a rock face at the base of a small cave. The hottest water flows directly from the cave, and temperatures decrease as the water moves into the lower pools, allowing visitors to find a comfortable temperature. The pools are intimate in size, and the daily visitor cap keeps the experience peaceful and uncrowded. The hike in follows the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River through beautiful old-growth forest, making the journey itself a highlight. Goldmyer serves as an excellent base camp for further exploration of the Upper Middle Fork River Valley, with additional backcountry trails accessible from the area. Because of the reserve's remote location and conservation mission, visitors should plan to be fully self-sufficient. Pack out all waste, respect quiet hours, and leave the area exactly as you found it. Cell service is unreliable to nonexistent in the valley.