Scenic Hot Springs

## Overview Scenic Hot Springs is a beloved backcountry geothermal soaking destination nestled high in the Cascade Range of Washington State, east of the Stevens Pass corridor. Located at approximately 47.709°N, 121.138°W and situated at an elevation of roughly 3,500 feet, these natural hot springs have long attracted hikers and hot spring enthusiasts seeking a remote alpine soaking experience surrounded by towering evergreens and mountain views. The springs consist of several small, volunteer-maintained soaking pools fed by geothermally heated water that emerges from the mountainside. Water temperatures at the source have been reported to reach upward of 100–110°F (38–43°C), with individual pools varying in temperature depending on their distance from the source and the mixing of cooler creek water. The geothermal activity in this area is associated with the broader volcanic and tectonic forces of the Cascade Range. Scenic Hot Springs has a colorful history. For years it operated in a gray area of public access on private timber land, and access policies have changed over time. Visitors should be aware that the springs are located on private property, and access has historically required permission or membership through the landowner or a stewardship group. It is essential to check current access status before making the trip, as trespassing enforcement has varied over the years. The springs are clothing-optional by long-standing tradition, and the community of visitors has historically emphasized a "pack it in, pack it out" ethic to preserve the fragile alpine environment. ## Directions 1. From Seattle, head east on US-2 toward Stevens Pass. 2. Continue past the town of Skykomish and climb toward Stevens Pass. The trailhead area is located along US-2 in the vicinity of the Stevens Pass ski area. 3. Look for a pullout or parking area on the south side of US-2, roughly a mile or two east of the Stevens Pass summit (the exact location can shift due to snow conditions and access changes). 4. From the trailhead, the hike to the springs is approximately 1.5 to 2 miles with significant elevation gain through forested terrain. The trail can be steep, uneven, and slippery — especially in winter when deep snow and avalanche terrain are serious hazards. 5. GPS coordinates (47.7089, -121.1383) can help guide you, but a GPS device or reliable offline map is strongly recommended, as cell service is limited in this area. **Note:** Winter access requires snowshoes or backcountry skis and avalanche awareness. The trail is not officially maintained and conditions can be challenging year-round. ## What to Expect The hike to Scenic Hot Springs is moderately strenuous, gaining several hundred feet of elevation through dense Pacific Northwest forest. Upon arrival, visitors will find a handful of small rock-and-log soaking pools perched on a hillside with views of the surrounding Cascade peaks — on clear days, the scenery is spectacular. The pools are rustic and natural, maintained by volunteers who have worked to keep the area clean and welcoming. Water flow and temperature can vary seasonally. The hot water has been described by visitors as having a mild mineral scent, consistent with geothermal springs in volcanic regions. Because of the elevation and mountain setting, weather can change rapidly. Snow can linger well into spring and return as early as October. Visitors should come prepared for cold, wet conditions even in summer. The trail can be muddy and root-covered, and proper hiking footwear is essential. As the springs are on private land, always verify current access rules before visiting. Historically, a stewardship organization managed access and required advance registration. Respecting the land, the pools, and fellow visitors is paramount to keeping this unique place available for future soakers.