Kennedy Hot Spring
Kennedy Hot Spring flows at 100 degrees at 3,520 feet elevation in the Mt. Baker National Forest, emerging 58.7 degrees above ambient temperature in remote Snohomish County wilderness. This classic Cascade thermal feature requires a 9.2-kilometer backcountry journey from Sloan Creek Road, making it a true wilderness destination accessible only to committed hikers prepared for substantial approach distances.
The spring occupies mid-elevation terrain in the heavily forested North Cascades, surrounded by old-growth Douglas fir and western hemlock transitioning to mountain hemlock at higher elevations. The site receives 96.2 inches of annual precipitation with 418.6 inches of snowfall, creating the dense forest and year-round snowpack on surrounding peaks characteristic of this wet mountain environment. The White Chuck River drainage system flows nearby through steep valleys, with glacier-clad Cascade peaks visible above the forest canopy.
Kennedy Hot Spring is named for early explorers or settlers in the region, though specific documentation of the Kennedy individual remains elusive in published historical records. The spring sits within traditional Upper Skagit territories where Indigenous peoples traveled mountain valleys for hunting, gathering, and trade routes across the Cascades. The Forest Service has maintained trail access since the mid-20th century, with the spring becoming a popular backcountry destination for wilderness hikers seeking remote thermal waters.
Plan visits for July through September when snow has melted from the trail and creek crossings become manageable. The 9.2-kilometer approach requires good physical conditioning and backcountry camping equipment for overnight trips. Average annual temperature of 41.3 degrees means freezing conditions occur even in summer nights, requiring appropriate sleeping gear. The 418.6 inches of annual snow creates serious winter access challenges and spring avalanche hazard. Sulphur Creek Campground 14.5 kilometers away offers primitive camping as a staging area with reservations available.
Is Kennedy Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Backpacking adventures
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Day trips with young children
Overview Sulphur Creek Campground is a primitive site in a beautiful forest along the banks of the scenic Suiattle River and Sulpher Creek. It is a remote haven set amongst towering old growth Douglas fir trees in the Mt. Baker-Snoquamie National Forest. Hikers frequently camp here to explore the many trails surrounding the facility. It has moderate, enjoyable summer temperatures throughout the camping season.Recreation The biggest draw to Sulphur Creek Campground is hiking. The well-known...