Sol Duc Hot Springs: Relaxing After Hiking in Olympic National Park

After spending the day hiking the wild, rocky coast of Rialto Beach , we felt that familiar post-adventure fatigue setting in. The sea stacks had been stunning, and we’d walked along the driftwood-strewn shore, soaking in the beauty of Olympic National Park’s rugged coastline. But now, our legs were calling for a break, and we still had a long drive ahead toward Mount Rainier National Park. That’s when Sol Duc Hot Springs became the perfect detour for us to recharge.

A Welcome Respite After Coastal Adventures

Tucked away in the forested heart of Olympic National Park, Sol Duc Hot Springs is just what you need after a long day of exploring. Whether you’ve been walking along the Pacific coast, hiking through the Hoh Rainforest , or taking in the views from Hurricane Ridge, Sol Duc offers a unique way to unwind in nature. For us, it was the perfect way to end our day at Rialto Beach .

Located about 40 minutes from Port Angeles , getting there from the coast was straightforward. We turned off Highway 101 and wound our way through the forest, anticipation growing as we neared the hot springs resort. You can’t beat the scenery on the way, either—the road weaves past Lake Crescent, a glimmering blue jewel tucked between towering evergreens.

What Makes Sol Duc Special?

The springs are part of the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, and the setup includes three mineral pools with temperatures ranging from a mild 99°F to a steaming 104°F. After hiking over 10 miles the day before on the Hoh River Trail through the lush, moss-draped landscapes of the Hoh Rainforest , stepping into those hot waters felt like absolute bliss. To cap it off, we couldn’t resist trying the cold freshwater pool, and while jumping in was a shock to the system, it felt amazing—the perfect way to refresh our tired muscles before settling back into the warmth.

How to Book and What to Expect

Unlike many hot springs, you can’t just walk in and stay all day. Sol Duc has recently switched to a time-slot booking system, which makes things more organized and less crowded. You book your session in advance (either the day of or the day before), and each session gives you 1.5 hours to soak. Trust me, it’s plenty of time to unwind after a hike. The 30-minute gap between sessions lets the staff clean and test the pools, ensuring everything stays fresh for the next round of visitors.

During our visit, we showed up a little early to secure our spot and spent some time wandering the grounds. The resort is in a lush, green valley, and you can hear the nearby Sol Duc River flowing as you soak. It’s the kind of place where you can truly disconnect, surrounded by trees and the calming sound of water.

The Perfect Stop Before Heading to Mount Rainier

For us, Sol Duc Hot Springs wasn’t just a post-hike treat; it was a perfect halfway stop as we made our way toward Mount Rainier National Park. After hiking along the coastline and immersing ourselves in the Olympic Peninsula’s wild beauty, soaking in these natural hot springs was the ultimate way to reset before heading back on the road. We left feeling rejuvenated and ready for our next adventure.

Final Tips for Visiting

• Book ahead: The time slots fill up, especially during peak times, so plan ahead and arrive early to secure your preferred session.
• Bring your essentials: Don’t forget a swimsuit, towel, and water bottle. Towels are available to rent for $4 if you need them, but it’s easier to bring your own.
• Take a hike before soaking: If you have time, try the Sol Duc Falls Trail, a short hike near the resort that takes you to one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the park.

Whether you’re wrapping up a day of hiking or just passing through, Sol Duc Hot Springs is an unforgettable way to relax in the middle of one of the most beautiful national parks in the country. If you’re traveling between Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier, it’s a stop you won’t want to miss.

Sol Duc was the perfect blend of relaxation and nature, and we couldn’t have asked for a better way to recharge before continuing our journey. If you’re planning a trip to Olympic National Park, definitely make time for this one-of-a-kind experience!