Goldmyer Hot Springs, a serene 20-acre wilderness preserve just an hour from Seattle, requires a reservation to visit—and it’s typically booked solid. Fortunately, a few rare July openings remain, and the September reservation lottery is now open through July 31, 2025.
About Goldmyer Hot Springs
Goldmyer is a remote, nonprofit-run natural hot spring oasis located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, about 25 miles east of North Bend. Managed by Northwest Wilderness Programs, the site features three natural soaking pools where lucky guests can soak beneath old-growth trees, alongside the Snoqualmie River.
The spring is fed by cold surface water that’s naturally heated underground by geothermal energy, creating an incredibly peaceful, mineral-rich soak experience.
To protect its fragile ecosystem, access is strictly limited to just 20 visitors per day, and reservations are required.
Another aspect to Goldmyer’s allure is the remoteness. To get there, visitors must complete a 10.4-mile out-and-back hike. According to AllTrails, the trail itself is rated moderate, with about 892 feet of elevation gain and typically takes around 3 hrs 50 minutes to complete. The route winds through the moss-covered forest, across footbridges, and along the Snoqualmie River Valley.
How does the Goldmyer reservation lottery work?
At the time of publication, their calendar shows that there are spots still available for July 14, 21, and the week of July 28. However, same- and next-day reservations aren’t available. If you’re hoping to book this July, you’ll need to leave a voicemail with the nonprofit, with at least 2 business days’ notice.
For future visits to Goldmyer, you can apply to the September lottery before July 31. Winners are selected by drawing and contacted in order based on the dates they selected. You’ll find the application on the “Visit” tab at goldmyer.org.
A reservation is the only way to guarantee access to Goldmyer. Walk-ins are turned away once the daily visitor cap of 20 people is reached, even after the long trek.
What else should I know before I go?
- Camping is available on select days.
- No pets are allowed on the trail.
- High-clearance vehicles (SUV/mid-sized) are recommended for unpaved forest roads.
- There is no cell or internet service, so it’s recommended to plan ahead.
- Be bear- and cougar-aware, and read wildlife safety tips
- Respect the land, and follow Leave No Trace so others can enjoy it, too.
Goldmyer is a rare wilderness retreat in Washington – Plan ahead and soak in the stillness of this carefully preserved natural spa.
For reservations, safety information, and full guidelines about visiting Goldmyer Hot Springs, visit goldmyer.org.