Hidaway Springs
Hidaway Springs flows at 100°F from terrain 78 meters from Hidaway Springs Road in Umatilla County's Blue Mountains near Pilot Rock. At 4,150 feet elevation, the spring emerges nearly 55 degrees above the region's 45°F average air temperature, providing comfortably warm water in a high-elevation conifer forest receiving 73 inches of annual snow.
The spring emerges in mixed conifer forest at 4,150 feet elevation, where Douglas fir, grand fir, and ponderosa pine dominate north-facing slopes. Annual precipitation reaches 26.6 inches with substantial winter snowpack of 73 inches. The Blue Mountains rise steeply around the site, with elevations exceeding 6,000 feet on nearby ridges. Streams drain north toward the Umatilla River system. Olive Lake Campground sits 40 kilometers northwest at higher elevation, where subalpine fir and Engelmann spruce mark the forest transition zone near old mining districts.
The name suggests early recreational use or homestead development, though specific documentation remains limited. The Blue Mountains saw mining activity from the 1860s through early 1900s, with communities like Granite and settlements near the Fremont Powerhouse. The spring has remained relatively undeveloped compared to commercial hot springs, serving primarily local knowledge users.
Visit from June through October when snow melts sufficiently for road access. The 73-inch average snowpack makes winter approach difficult or impossible. At 100°F, the spring is suitable for soaking with user-created pools. Bring containers, shovels, and materials for pool construction. Be prepared for cool nights even in summer at this elevation. Olive Lake Campground 40 kilometers northwest offers developed camping and access to wilderness trails.
Is Hidaway Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Nestled on the edge of a lake, high in the Blue Mountains of Eastern Oregon, this popular campground is only 8 miles west of the historic Fremont Powerhouse and 12 miles west of the old mining town of Granite. The campground features 28 campsites and 7 accessible toilet facilities. Other features include a 2-mile hiking trail around the lake with nearby access to wilderness and scenic area trails, a boat ramp and 2 docks. Besides beautiful scenery, the lake offers many opportuni...