Goldmeyer Hot Springs
Goldmeyer Hot Springs emerges at 127 degrees in the central Cascades, producing water 78.9 degrees above ambient temperature at 1,770 feet elevation. This intensely hot spring requires a 4.9-kilometer hike from National Forest Development Road 9040 in King County, creating a wilderness experience accessible to moderately fit hikers willing to invest several hours of approach time.
The spring occupies mid-elevation terrain in the Snoqualmie River watershed, surrounded by old-growth forest and steep mountain valleys typical of the central Cascade Range. The site receives 91.1 inches of annual precipitation with 267.9 inches of snowfall, supporting dense conifer forest of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar. Burnboot Creek flows nearby through a narrow valley flanked by forested ridges rising toward higher Cascade peaks, creating the dramatic topography that defines this portion of Washington's mountain spine.
Historical documentation of Goldmeyer Hot Springs connects to early prospecting and mining activity in the Cascade backcountry during the late 1800s and early 1900s, when miners explored remote valleys seeking valuable ore deposits. The spring's name likely derives from miners or early settlers in the region. In recent decades, the site has been managed for low-impact public use with reservation systems controlling visitation to protect the fragile riparian environment surrounding the thermal features.
Plan visits between June and October when snow has melted from the approach trail and creek crossings remain safe. The 4.9-kilometer hike gains moderate elevation with several stream crossings that become hazardous during spring runoff. Reserve access in advance through the property's management system as drop-in visitation is not permitted. Bring sturdy footwear and expect muddy conditions given the 91.1 inches of annual precipitation. Denny Creek Campground 8.9 kilometers away offers developed camping with advance reservations strongly recommended.
Is Goldmeyer Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Situated near the south fork of the Snoqualmie River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Denny Creek Campground offers visitors stunning scenery and easy access to an abundance of recreational activities in the Northern Cascade Range. Campsites sit beneath a canopy of forest, and a few are sprinkled at the banks of Lodge Creek, which flows into the Snoqualmie.Recreation In addition to being a prime location for hiking, fishing, picnicking and horseback riding in summer and earl...