Last updated: August 4, 2022
Place
Ohanapecosh Walking Tour: Hot Springs
NPS/M. Meitle Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
Ohanapecosh
Amenities
1 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits
The Ohanapecosh hot springs are visible to either side of the trail for the next 100 feet. When you get a chance, reach down and feel the water. These springs, while not super-hot, tend to be several degrees warmer than water in nearby streams and rivers. The temperature of the water flowing from these mineral springs is just one sign of ongoing geothermal activity in the area. As rain and snowmelt flow down from the upper reaches of Mount Rainier, Taxoma (Yakama tribal word for Mount Rainier), some of it seeps through fractures in the volcanic rock, journeying deep beneath the mountain, where it begins to heat up. In time, the hot water will work its way back up to the surface at lower elevations, picking up minerals and gasses along the way. Near the surface, it mixes with cool ground water.
In the early 1920s, a health resort began to develop in this area. As the resort grew, a large bathhouse, inn, and small cabins were built. The opening to the right of the trail was the former location of the Ohanapecosh Hot Springs Lodge. The large depression to the left of the trail, past the end of the boardwalk, was planned to be a swimming pool. Many of the early visitors would have told you that their pains of arthritis were relieved after bathing in the spring's water, however, according to some authorities, the spring water is no more healthful than a hot bath with Epsom salt at home.
From 1961 to 1962 the National Park Service closed this area for expansion and modernization of the campground. During this time, the lodge was required to update its facilities, but was financially unable to meet federal standards and never reopened. In keeping with the policy of preserving the park's natural features, the buildings were removed, and the springs were restored to a natural state. In addition to evidence of human use, look for evidence of the American elk, wapiti (Yakama tribal word for elk) to either side of the trail as you move to the next stop. Typical signs would be droppings or tracks. The elk gather in this area during the winter because the heat from the springs keeps it free of snow.
In the early 1920s, a health resort began to develop in this area. As the resort grew, a large bathhouse, inn, and small cabins were built. The opening to the right of the trail was the former location of the Ohanapecosh Hot Springs Lodge. The large depression to the left of the trail, past the end of the boardwalk, was planned to be a swimming pool. Many of the early visitors would have told you that their pains of arthritis were relieved after bathing in the spring's water, however, according to some authorities, the spring water is no more healthful than a hot bath with Epsom salt at home.
From 1961 to 1962 the National Park Service closed this area for expansion and modernization of the campground. During this time, the lodge was required to update its facilities, but was financially unable to meet federal standards and never reopened. In keeping with the policy of preserving the park's natural features, the buildings were removed, and the springs were restored to a natural state. In addition to evidence of human use, look for evidence of the American elk, wapiti (Yakama tribal word for elk) to either side of the trail as you move to the next stop. Typical signs would be droppings or tracks. The elk gather in this area during the winter because the heat from the springs keeps it free of snow.