Oregon’s Top Hot Springs You Can Visit Year-Round

Oregon, with its boundless natural beauty, is home to several thermal pools where visitors can soak and relax amidst stunning vistas. Turning every season into a spa season, these hot springs offer solace and unforgettable memories. So pack your car, put on some comfortable shoes, and let’s explore Oregon’s top hot springs that you can visit year-round, starting from the Cascade Mountains to the coastal forests.

1. Bagby Hot Springs

Located in the heart of Mount Hood National Forest, a visit to Bagby Hot Springs is not complete without a tranquil trek through the verdant forest. Just an hour’s drive from Estacada, it offers three bathhouses with a total of seven private soaking tubs. Remember to respect the natural environment and pack out what you pack in!

2. Umpqua Hot Springs

Perched atop the North Umpqua River, ‘rustic’ is the operative word here. A short hike off Highway 138, close to Crater Lake, the springs include several cliffside pools that allows you to soak while enjoying panoramic views. Given its popularity, an early morning visit ensures you beat the crowd and get the best spot for yourself.

3. Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs, located near Detroit, is more than just a hot spring. It’s a holistic retreat offering a unique blend of therapeutic soaks and educational workshops year-round. With its lodgings, vegetarian meals, and conference rooms, Breitenbush is a perfect place for a rejuvenating getaway. Don’t miss the adorable Spirit Path labyrinth while you’re there.

4. Cougar Hot Springs

Also known as Terwilliger Hot Springs, Cougar Hot Springs near Blue River is a cascade of five naturally formed pools dropping down a scenic forested hillside. Visit mid-week for more quietude. In the winter, the road can get slick, so drive with caution.

5. Hunter’s Hot Springs

Operated by Hunter’s Hot Springs Resort, these soothing waters in Lakeview have been a bathing retreat since pioneer times. After soaking, you can adjourn to the resort’s restaurant for a homestyle meal, seemingly prepared by Grandma Hunter herself.

6. Paulina Lake Hot Springs

A set of lakeside mineral springs within the heart of Newberry National Volcanic Monument, east of LaPine, the Paulina Lake Hot Springs are accessible only by hiking or boating. Wrap up your visit with a sunset walk around the majestic Cinder Hill.

7. Alvord Desert Hot Springs

Located in Southeastern Oregon’s Harney County, the Alvord Desert Hot Springs offer one of Oregon’s most diverse landscapes: think hot springs next to the playas of a dry lake bed with Steens Mountain as your backdrop. It’s hard to beat that kind of surreal beauty.

8. Bigelow Hot Springs

Bigelow, or Deer Creek as it’s locally known, is a small intimate hot spring in the Upper McKenzie River area. Its proximity to Sahalie and Koosah falls makes it an excellent addition to any waterfall tour. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy it by the river after your soothing soak.

9. McCredie Hot Springs

Situated just east of Oakridge along Highway 58, McCredie Hot Springs provides natural bathing pools by the banks of Salt Creek. It’s a great option for folks traveling between Eugene and Central Oregon. Beware of fast-moving water in spring and early summer when snowmelt can transform the creek into a rapid torrent.

10. Snively Hot Springs

Snively Hot Springs is a local gem tucked away in Eastern Oregon near the quaint town of Vale. Situated on the banks of Owyhee River, these springs are perfect for a free, warm soak in a natural setting. The pool can get a bit muddy, but the striking sunset views over the river make up for it.

There you have it, friends, a local’s guide to the best hot springs you can visit throughout the year in our beautiful Oregon. Each offers a different vibe and view, but all provide the same warmed-to-the-bone relaxation and peace that only comes from sinking into nature’s own hot tub. Enjoy your journey and happy soaking!