Tenzen Hot Springs

## Overview Tenzen Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located in the Columbia River Gorge region of northern Oregon, at an approximate elevation near the crest of the Cascade Range. Situated at GPS coordinates 45.7179, -121.7828, this spring lies in a remote, forested area west of the town of Hood River and south of the Columbia River. The location places it in the volcanic terrain of the Cascades, where geothermal activity heats groundwater as it circulates deep underground through fractured basalt and volcanic rock before rising to the surface. The name "Tenzen" suggests a possible connection to Japanese soaking culture, which has a long tradition in the Pacific Northwest — particularly in Oregon, where natural hot springs have been cherished by both indigenous peoples and settlers for centuries. The Cascade Range is home to numerous geothermal features, and hot springs in this area are typically fed by snowmelt and rainwater that percolates deep into the earth, is heated by residual volcanic activity, and returns to the surface enriched with dissolved minerals. Visitors have historically sought out hot springs in this part of Oregon for relaxation and the reputed therapeutic benefits of mineral-rich geothermal water. Water temperatures at Cascade hot springs in this region can vary widely, from warm soaking temperatures to scalding, so caution is always advised when approaching any natural hot spring. ## Directions 1. From Hood River, Oregon, head west on Interstate 84 along the Columbia River Gorge. 2. The spring is located in a remote, wooded area at GPS coordinates **45.7179, -121.7828**. Use a reliable GPS device or mapping application to navigate to these coordinates. 3. Access may require travel on forest service roads, which can be unpaved, narrow, and seasonally impassable due to snow or mud. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended. 4. Be prepared for a possible hike from the nearest accessible road to the spring itself. Wear sturdy footwear and bring appropriate gear for backcountry travel. *Note: These directions are based on GPS coordinates only and have not been verified against a specific trail guide or official source. Conditions on forest roads can change seasonally — check with the Mt. Hood National Forest ranger station for current road and access conditions before heading out.* ## What to Expect Tenzen Hot Springs is situated in the densely forested volcanic landscape of the northern Oregon Cascades. Visitors should expect a remote, undeveloped setting — this is not a commercial hot spring resort. The surrounding terrain is typical of the Cascade Range: towering conifers, mossy undergrowth, and rugged volcanic rock formations. As with many backcountry hot springs in Oregon, the water may collect in natural rock pools or depressions near the source. Water temperature can vary depending on the season, recent precipitation, and proximity to the source vent. Always test the water carefully before entering, as geothermal springs can be dangerously hot at the source. The area may be snow-covered or difficult to access during winter and early spring months. Summer and early fall typically offer the best conditions for visiting. Cell phone service in this part of the Cascades is unreliable, so plan accordingly — bring a paper map or download offline maps before your trip. Because this is a natural, undeveloped site, there are no facilities, restrooms, or maintained trails at the spring. Practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, respect the natural surroundings, and leave the site as you found it for future visitors to enjoy.