Wind River Hot Springs

## Overview Wind River Hot Springs is a free, natural hot spring located along the Wind River in the Columbia River Gorge area of Washington State, near the small community of Carson. Situated at approximately 45.7369°N, 121.8042°W, these hot springs sit along the banks of the Wind River and have historically attracted visitors seeking a rustic, undeveloped soaking experience in a beautiful Pacific Northwest forest setting. The hot springs in this area owe their existence to the volcanic geology of the Cascade Range. Geothermally heated water rises through fractures in the bedrock and emerges at the river's edge, where it mixes with the cool waters of the Wind River. The region has a long history of geothermal activity — the nearby St. Martin's Hot Springs (also known as Carson Hot Springs) has been in use since the mid-1800s, and indigenous peoples of the Columbia Plateau are believed to have used the area's thermal waters for centuries before European settlement. Wind River Hot Springs is an undeveloped, primitive site with no facilities or admission fees. Visitors have historically created small rock-lined soaking pools where the hot water seeps out along the riverbank. Water temperatures can vary significantly depending on the season, river levels, and the specific seep location — some pools may be comfortably warm while others can be quite hot near the source. ## Directions 1. From Portland, Oregon, head east on I-84 along the Columbia River Gorge. 2. Cross into Washington via the Bridge of the Gods at Cascade Locks (toll bridge) and turn right (west) onto WA-14. 3. After approximately 1.5 miles, turn left (north) onto the Wind River Highway (WA-30) toward Carson. 4. Continue north along the Wind River Highway. The hot springs are located along the Wind River, accessible from the road or nearby trails in the general vicinity of GPS coordinates 45.736871, -121.804191. 5. Look for informal pullouts or parking areas along the road near the river. The springs are at the river's edge and may require a short scramble down to the water. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on GPS coordinates. Road conditions and access points may change seasonally. It is recommended to verify current access before visiting, as some areas along the Wind River may be on private or restricted land.* ## What to Expect Wind River Hot Springs is a completely undeveloped site, so visitors should come prepared for a backcountry experience. There are no restrooms, changing areas, or maintained trails leading to the soaking pools. The hot spring seeps emerge along the riverbank, and the quality of soaking pools depends largely on how recently other visitors have stacked rocks to contain the thermal water. During periods of high water — typically in spring and early summer when snowmelt swells the Wind River — the pools may be submerged or washed away entirely. Late summer and fall generally offer the best conditions for soaking, when river levels drop and the warm pools are more accessible. The surrounding landscape is lush Pacific Northwest forest, with towering Douglas fir and western red cedar providing a scenic canopy. The sound of the rushing Wind River adds to the atmosphere. The area can be muddy and slippery, especially on the scramble down to the river, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Because this is a free, primitive hot spring with no oversight, visitors should be respectful of the natural environment and practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash and be mindful of other visitors sharing the space.