Goldmyer Hot Springs, Washington

What it is

Goldmyer is one of Washington’s best-known soaking trips for a reason: real wilderness pools, careful stewardship, and a setting that feels deep in the Cascades even though it is reachable from the Seattle side. It is privately managed by a nonprofit, not a public “show up anytime” hot spring.

How visits work

Access is controlled to protect the site. Reservations are strongly recommended if you want to be sure you get in, and there are strict limits on group size. Shared-use days do not run on timed soaking slots, but you still need to follow property rules and caretaker direction.

Think of Goldmyer as a backcountry destination with frontcountry structure. You still hike in and you still carry what you need, but the overall experience is calmer and less chaotic than many open-access wild springs.

Where it is

Goldmyer sits near the edge of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, up the Middle Fork Snoqualmie area outside North Bend. You reach the trail system from the Middle Fork valley, then hike in through forest along the river corridor.

Getting there

Plan on a long out-and-back hike. Road conditions to trailheads in the Middle Fork can change with floods and grading, so confirm current access before you drive out. Once you start hiking, expect a steady, straightforward forest walk rather than technical terrain, but you are still far from quick help.

What to bring

Bring cash as a backup payment method, plus the usual backcountry kit: headlamp, rain gear, enough food and water, and a dry layer for after soaking. Pack sandals for wet ground, and bring a small towel you do not mind getting muddy. If you camp (when allowed), bring full overnight gear and plan for wet Washington conditions.

Best for

Goldmyer suits hikers who want a quieter wild soak and are willing to plan ahead. It is a strong choice if you dislike crowded roadside springs, or if you want a more respectful, stewarded environment.

Families

Even though kids can be part of a reservation, the distance and commitment make it a hard sell for most families. If you do bring children, keep the plan conservative and focus on the hike first, the soaking second.

Mobility realities

This is not an accessibility destination. The approach is a long hike with backcountry footing, and the pools are natural and uneven. If you need firm surfaces, railings, or easy entry, choose a developed hot springs pool instead.

Expectations vs reality

Because access is limited, the vibe is often better than open-access wild springs, but it is still a shared space. You may be soaking alongside other groups, and you should arrive ready to be flexible and courteous.

Reservations, limits, and being turned away

Goldmyer enforces group size limits and daily capacity. Without a reservation, you can be turned away if the site is full. Walk-ins are not a guarantee, even if you are willing to hike in.

Clothing norms

The springs are swimsuit optional. Clothing is required elsewhere on the property. If you want a guaranteed no-nudity time, you need to follow the property’s exclusive-use rules rather than hoping for the best.

Backcountry safety

Treat the trip like a wilderness hike. Weather changes quickly, the river corridor can be slick, and minor injuries become bigger problems when you are hours from the car. Carry a first-aid kit and a headlamp even for “day trips.”

Etiquette that matters here

Follow caretaker instructions, keep noise down, and do not bring glass. Keep soaps and shampoos out of pools. Pack out all trash. This place stays good because visitors stick to the rules, and the caretakers actually enforce them.

Do I need a reservation?

A reservation is the only way to guarantee access. Walk-ins may be possible on days with openings, but you can still be turned away if capacity is reached.

Is there a swimsuit policy?

Goldmyer is swimsuit optional at the springs, but clothing is required elsewhere on the property.

Are there time limits?

On shared-use days, Goldmyer does not assign time slots. Your experience still depends on capacity and courtesy with other groups.

How big can my group be?

Group size is capped and reservations cannot be combined to create larger parties. Check current limits before you plan.