Quick FactsOverview
About Goldmyer Hot Springs
Goldmyer Hot Springs, Washington is a paid geothermal spring on a 20-acre wilderness preserve managed by the non-profit Northwest Wilderness Programs, approximately 25 miles east of North Bend in the Upper Middle Fork River Valley. The source emerges at 125 degrees Fahrenheit from a restored miners' tunnel, flowing through three interconnected natural pools. The cave pool at the mine entrance reaches approximately 111 degrees. The middle pool cools to around 104 degrees and the lower pool to approximately 98 degrees. A cold-water pool is also available. The property is bordered by the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and surrounded by old-growth forest.
Northwest Wilderness Programs limits daily visitors to 20 people and requires reservations by phone, up to two months ahead via a lottery calendar. Walk-ins are turned away if the cap is met. A resident caretaker lives on the property year-round. Day-use rates are $30 per adult aged 18 to 64, $25 for seniors 65 and over, and free for children under 18. Overnight camping is available Wednesday through Sunday for an additional fee. Tuesdays are reserved for exclusive group use for up to eight people at a flat rate.
Location & Access
Getting to Goldmyer Hot Springs
Goldmyer Hot Springs is reached via the Dutch Miller Gap Trail from the Dingford Creek Trailhead. From Seattle, take Interstate 90 east to exit 34 at North Bend. Turn left onto 468th Ave SE and follow Middle Fork Road (Forest Road 56) for approximately 20 miles to the Dingford Creek Trailhead. The road has significant potholes, ruts, and rough sections and requires a high-clearance AWD or 4WD vehicle with at least eight to nine inches of ground clearance. Snow tires or chains may be needed in winter. The final five miles to the trailhead are never plowed. From the trailhead parking area, pass the metal gate and follow the Dutch Miller Gap Trail approximately 4.5 miles at around 200 feet of elevation gain to the Goldmyer Hot Springs property boundary. Check in with the caretaker at the cabin before continuing the final 0.25 miles to the pools. The total hike is approximately 5 miles one-way.
There is no cell service or internet access at any point from the trailhead onward. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for trailhead parking. Reservations must be made before arrival by calling Northwest Wilderness Programs at (206) 789-5631. The office is not open to in-person visitors and online booking is not available. For those seeking natural hot springs near North Bend Washington, Goldmyer is the only permitted backcountry soaking destination in the immediate area.
Suitability & Accessibility
Suitability and Accessibility of Goldmyer Hot Springs
Goldmyer Hot Springs suits day hikers and backpackers who can plan ahead to secure a phone reservation and are self-sufficient without cell service. The Dutch Miller Gap Trail has only about 200 feet of elevation gain over 4.5 miles and is rated moderate, making it accessible to most adults in reasonable fitness. Children under 18 are admitted free and the pools are suitable for families with supervision. Dogs are not permitted on the property.
The springs are clothing-optional. Visitors preferring a clothed environment can book a Tuesday exclusive-use slot, which guarantees no other visitors on the property. Pool temperatures range from approximately 98 degrees at the lower pool to 111 degrees in the cave pool. The 20-person daily cap keeps the experience uncrowded, though privacy on shared days is not guaranteed. Peak hours are typically 11am to 3pm.
The property is not wheelchair accessible. On-site facilities are minimal by design: outhouses, a changing cabana, campsites with food storage systems, two picnic tables, and a bike rack. There is no drinking water facility. Visitors must carry all supplies in and out. For those seeking natural hot springs near North Bend Washington, Goldmyer is the most actively managed backcountry soaking destination in the Cascades foothills east of Seattle.
Safety & Etiquette
Goldmyer Hot Springs Safety Tips
Goldmyer Hot Springs has a resident caretaker year-round. The cave pool at approximately 111 degrees Fahrenheit is on the upper edge of the safe soaking range. Limit time in the cave pool and exit if you feel dizzy or overheated. The middle and lower pools at 98 to 104 degrees are more suitable for extended soaking. Drink water throughout your visit as there is no potable water facility on site.
The access road requires a high-clearance AWD or 4WD vehicle with at least eight to nine inches of clearance. Do not attempt it in a sedan or in icy conditions. The final five miles are never plowed. Check road conditions with Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest before setting out, particularly November through April. Stream crossings on the approach can be hazardous after rain or spring snowmelt. Use the Dutch Miller Gap Trail via Dingford Creek and avoid the Middle Fork Trail, which requires crossing Burnt Boot Creek with no bridge.
There is no cell coverage from the trailhead onward and no emergency services at the property. Inform someone of your itinerary before setting out. Bears and mountain lions are present. Campers must use the on-site food storage systems and must not leave food unattended. Campfires are strictly prohibited at all times. White gas and propane stoves are permitted. Pack out all waste including food scraps.
Reservations must be confirmed before visiting. Visitors without reservations will be turned away if the 20-person cap is met. The office cannot process same-day or next-day reservations. Check the online calendar before driving out to confirm availability before attempting a walk-in visit.
