Warm soaking pools, better known as hot springs, have become highly sought-after travel destinations.

These natural thermal features are produced by the emergence of geothermally heated groundwater, and larger springs are the result of cracks in sedimentary rock. Water in the pools surpasses outside temperatures, which makes them a unique natural element. While travelers seek out hot springs around the world, our backyard is prime territory to explore these pools, ranging from primitive forest outings, to resort-style experiences.

Olympic National Park is home to springs in both undeveloped environments and established soaking sites. Olympic Hot Springs, near Port Angeles, revels in natural simplicity. The area is known as “Triple 21 Hot Springs” thanks to its 2,100-feet elevation, 21-mile distance from the city and 21 hot springs, though they have been collected into seven soaking pools. The lush, 4.4-mile hike into the springs can easily be made into a day trip. While the primitive, rocky surfaces of the pools are not maintained by the park or the Clallam County Health Department, visitors still take advantage of the semi-enclosed area, and test out their birthday suits.

Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort also lies within Olympic National Park. The site offers a comfortable experience for travelers while they enjoy any of the three mineral soaking pools, or the freshwater pool. The springs vary in size and temperature. Travelers can make the most of the resort’s amenities without reserving a room, but the pool fees are included for overnight guests. For reservations visit olympicnationalparks.com.

Goldmyer Hot Springs, burrowed in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, and a short drive from North Bend, Wash., offers a quaint and quiet atmosphere. Ancient forests surround the pools, creating privacy for visitors. The area is also limited to 20 people per day, so the only way to guarantee access is by making a reservation. Camping on one of the wilderness sites is also available. Read more at goldmyer.org.

Goldmyer Hot Springs is surrounded by lush foilage to ensure visitors a semi-private experience. Photo by: hundertmorgen

A number of hot springs are hidden within Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, as well. Bigelow, or Deer Creek Hot Springs are natural springs located in the Willamette National Forest, about an hour outside of Eugene. The lush location pairs with its close proximity to the McKenzie River and its comfortable 104-degree Fahrenheit temperatures. Due to the location, frigid river water influences temperatures in the pools during the winter months, so the summer and winter are ideal times for visiting.

Umpqua Hot Springs is situated on a mineral deposit just above the North Umpqua River in Central Oregon. The site features three hot pools, two camp spots, a toilet, picnic tables and of course, plenty of nude visitors. Soak seekers will make a brief, quarter-mile hike to the pools, but due to the impact of snow during winter months, should be prepared for at least a two-mile trek. Because these springs are elevated, they boast a terrific view overlooking the river and nearby waterfalls.

Bagby Hot Springs, located in Mt. Hood National Forest, offers a unique experience by hitting the perfect medium between primitive and developed pools. After a short 1.5-mile hike through old-growth trees, visitors will find three soaking options: the private deck, which houses five hollowed-out log tubs in individual rooms, the public deck, which features three more log tubs and the upper deck, which is home to one large whisky barrel fit for about eight people. The log soaking tubs were salvaged from a fire in 1979, and guarantee a one-of-a-kind venture. It is best to avoid the winter when planning a trip to these pools, as road access is often closed.

For more information on Oregon’s hot springs visit soakoregon.com.