Sol Duc Resort

## Overview Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is one of the most popular destinations within Olympic National Park, offering a rare combination of natural mineral hot springs and comfortable resort-style accommodations deep in the heart of Washington's Olympic Peninsula. Located along the Sol Duc River valley at the end of Soleduck Road, the resort has been drawing visitors to its geothermally heated waters for well over a century. The name "Sol Duc" is derived from a Quileute word often translated as "sparkling water," a fitting description for the mineral-rich hot springs that bubble up in this lush, old-growth rainforest setting. The springs were long known to the indigenous peoples of the region before Euro-American settlers arrived. The first commercial resort was built here in 1912 — a grand lodge that unfortunately burned down in 1916. Over the decades, the site was rebuilt and eventually incorporated into Olympic National Park, where it continues to operate as a concessionaire-run resort today. The hot springs are believed to be fed by rainwater and snowmelt that percolates deep underground through the surrounding sedimentary and volcanic rock formations. As the water travels through these geologic layers, it is naturally heated and picks up dissolved minerals, gases, and trace elements before resurfacing at the spring site. Visitors have long reported that the mineral-rich water feels soothing and rejuvenating. ## Directions 1. From **Port Angeles, WA**, head west on **US-101** for approximately 27 miles. 2. Turn left (south) onto **Soleduck Road** (also signed as Sol Duc Road). The turnoff is well-marked with a brown National Park Service sign. 3. Follow Soleduck Road south for about **12 miles** as it winds through old-growth forest along the Sol Duc River. 4. The road ends at the **Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort** complex, where you'll find parking, the pools, cabins, a campground, and trailheads. *Note: A valid Olympic National Park entrance pass is required to access the Sol Duc area. Passes can be purchased at the entrance station along Soleduck Road.* ## What to Expect ### The Soaking Pools The resort features **three mineral soaking pools** and one **freshwater swimming pool**, all maintained and staffed by the resort: - **Small Mineral Wading Pool** — Approximately 6–8 inches deep with an average temperature around **99°F**. This shallow pool is great for easing into the hot spring experience. - **Medium Mineral Pool** — About 3 feet deep, with water temperatures averaging **101–104°F**. - **Large Mineral Fountain Pool** — Also approximately 3 feet deep, with temperatures in the **101–104°F** range. The medium and large pools are reserved for children ages 4 and older. - **Freshwater Pool** — About 3 feet deep and open to all ages, offering a cooler alternative. The resort closes the hot spring pools **twice daily** for water testing and maintenance — referred to as the "resting phase." Plan your soak accordingly and check with the front desk for the current schedule. ### Accommodations & Camping - **Cabins** are available seasonally, typically from **late March through late October** (dates vary slightly year to year). The cabins come equipped with kitchens, bedrooms, and other amenities, making them an excellent option for families or anyone looking for a comfortable multi-day stay on the Olympic Peninsula. - The **Sol Duc Campground** and **RV sites** are also open seasonally during roughly the same window (historically late March through late October). Primitive, walk-in camping may be available during the off-season — check with the National Park Service for current conditions. ### Surroundings & Activities The Sol Duc valley is a gateway to some of Olympic National Park's finest trails. The popular **Sol Duc Falls Trail** begins at the end of the road near the resort and is an easy 1.6-mile round-trip hike to a stunning waterfall. Longer backpacking routes lead deeper into the park's interior, including connections to the High Divide and Seven Lakes Basin — some of the most scenic alpine terrain in the Pacific Northwest. Because there is so much to see and do in the greater Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest, it's well worth planning your trip in advance. The official park website offers sample itineraries and up-to-date information on road conditions, trail closures, and seasonal hours for the resort. ### Tips for Your Visit - **Arrive early** during peak summer months, as the pools and parking area can fill up quickly. - **Bring layers** — the Sol Duc valley sits in a temperate rainforest and weather can shift from sunshine to rain quickly. - A **National Park entrance fee or pass** is required. - Day-use visitors can purchase pool access separately from overnight guests; check the resort's website for current pricing and hours.