Quick FactsOverview
About Klickitat Mineral Springs
Klickitat Mineral Springs, Washington is a free geological sightseeing site on the Klickitat River approximately 2 miles east of the town of Klickitat in Klickitat County. The springs are naturally carbonated CO2 seeps fed by volcanic gas associated with Mount Adams, not a geothermal hot spring. The water is cold and effervescent, similar to naturally sparkling mineral water. No soaking is possible. The springs are accessible via the Klickitat Trail through the WDFW Mineral Springs Wildlife Area Unit along the east bank of the Klickitat River.
The site has historical significance as a commercial operation. In 1931 the Gas-Ice Corporation harvested the CO2 to produce dry ice, eventually reaching 18 tons per day at peak production. The plant closed in 1968. The last remaining dry ice building and two concrete chimney structures from the former water-bottling operation still stand at the site. The chimneys serve as a roost for Vaux's swifts during spring and autumn migrations. The springs still flow and produce pools with distinctive orange-colored algae that thrives in the mineral-rich water.
Location & Access
Getting to Klickitat Mineral Springs
Klickitat Mineral Springs is located along the Klickitat Trail in Klickitat County, Washington, approximately 2 miles east of the town of Klickitat on State Route 142. The nearest community is Wahkiacus, an unincorporated settlement on SR-142 approximately 3 miles east-northeast of Klickitat. The springs are accessed on foot via the Klickitat Trail, a multi-use rail trail along the Klickitat River. The Wahkiacus Trailhead adjacent to Schilling Road near its junction with Horseshoe Bend Road is the nearest trailhead access point for the springs. From Goldendale, follow SR-142 west toward Klickitat. The Klickitat Trail passes directly through the Mineral Springs Wildlife Area Unit and the springs can be observed from the trail.
A Discover Pass or Vehicle Access Pass is required to use WDFW-managed parking areas in the wildlife area. The Mineral Springs Campground and boat ramp on the west bank of the river, operated by WDFW, is accessible from SR-142 approximately 1.7 miles upstream from the town of Klickitat. The campground provides the closest vehicle access to the springs area. The Klickitat Trail itself is open for hiking and mountain biking. For those exploring mineral spring sites near Klickitat Washington in the Columbia River Gorge region, the Klickitat Mineral Springs site is a useful stop on a longer trail or river trip through the Klickitat River Canyon.
Suitability & Accessibility
Suitability and Accessibility of Klickitat Mineral Springs
Klickitat Mineral Springs suits hikers, trail users, birdwatchers, and those interested in the geology and industrial history of the Columbia River Gorge. The springs are accessible via the Klickitat Trail, a flat converted rail grade suitable for most fitness levels including families and older visitors. The trail is open to hikers and mountain bikers. This is not a soaking spring and is not suitable for visitors seeking geothermal hot water.
The carbonated spring water is cold. The springs flow into small pooled areas alongside the trail, visually identified by distinctive orange-colored algae. These pools are too cold and too shallow for soaking or swimming. The industrial ruins, including two concrete chimney structures of the former water-bottling plant and the last dry ice building across the river, add historical interest to the site.
Birdwatchers should note the chimneys function as a communal roost for Vaux's swifts during spring and autumn migrations. Tick populations along this section of the Klickitat Trail are significant from spring through early summer, so appropriate clothing and post-hike checks are advised. For those seeking mineral springs near Klickitat Washington, the site works well combined with trail hiking, steelhead fishing, and camping at the WDFW Mineral Springs Campground nearby.
Safety & Etiquette
Klickitat Mineral Springs Safety Tips
Klickitat Mineral Springs is a day-use natural area managed as part of the WDFW Mineral Springs Wildlife Area Unit. There are no staff present on site and no emergency services. The springs themselves are cold carbonated CO2 seeps and do not present thermal hazards, but several other safety considerations apply to the site and surroundings.
The Klickitat River is an active cold-water river with strong currents, particularly during spring snowmelt from Mount Adams and following storm events. Wading or swimming in the Klickitat River near this site is not advised outside of summer low-flow conditions when the river is used for floating and fishing. Even during summer the river contains submerged obstacles and can drop rapidly in temperature after warm days. Anyone entering or crossing the river should assess conditions carefully before doing so.
Tick populations along the Klickitat Trail are described as significant from spring into early summer. Wear long sleeves and trousers and perform thorough tick checks after any visit to the trail corridor during this period. The trail passes through sections of mixed oak and pine woodland which is prime tick habitat in this part of Washington State.
SR-142 runs through the Klickitat River Canyon and sections of the road are narrow with limited shoulder. Drive carefully on this route, particularly when pulling in or out of unmarked access points. There is no potable water available at the springs or along the trail in this section. Bring sufficient drinking water for the full length of your planned hike. Cell coverage in the Klickitat River Canyon is limited in spots. Inform someone of your route and expected return before setting out on a longer hike through this area.
