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Umpqua Hot Springs Trail

Umpqua National Forest, Oregon · 3 min read

Distance
0.4 mi
Elevation Gain
120 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
Year-round
Dog Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
1 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
None
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Natural geothermal pool at 106-112°F with views over the North Umpqua
  • Open-air shelter structure at the main pool
  • Views down into the North Umpqua River canyon
  • Year-round hot spring access
  • One of Oregon's most visited hot spring destinations

Overview

Umpqua Hot Springs is one of Oregon's most visited natural hot spring destinations, a geothermal pool perched on a cliff face above the North Umpqua River in Umpqua National Forest. The short trail to reach it is genuinely brief, but the destination is distinctive enough that people drive hours from Portland and Eugene specifically to visit.

The main pool is covered by a wooden shelter structure that concentrates steam in cooler months. A cliff-edge opening provides views down into the river canyon. Additional smaller pools exist at slightly different temperatures. The spring is hot by any standard, typically 106-112°F; limit soak time accordingly as individual heat tolerance varies.

Note: Umpqua Hot Springs sees extreme weekend crowds from June through September. The small parking lot fills by 8 a.m. on summer Saturdays. Plan a weekday visit or arrive very early.

The Route

Trailhead to the Springs (Mile 0 to 0.2)

From the trailhead on Forest Road 3401, the trail climbs steeply up a well-worn path through mixed forest to the cliff bench where the spring emerges. The main pool and shelter are at the top of this short climb.

A second smaller pool exists a short distance from the main one and is often slightly cooler. The views from the cliff edge over the North Umpqua River are worth a look before descending.

Return via the same short trail.

When to Visit

Year-round access is realistic for the trail itself. The hot spring runs regardless of season, and winter and shoulder-season visits are significantly less crowded.

November through April is the least crowded period and the most atmospheric, with steam rising dramatically in cold air.

June through August is peak crowding. Expect a full parking lot and the pools at capacity on weekend afternoons.

What to Bring

Bring water for drinking before and after soaking. No water is available at the springs. Towels, sandals for the rock surfaces, and a change of clothes are practical items.

Individual heat sensitivity varies; short soaks are generally more comfortable than extended ones at these temperatures. People with certain health conditions should check with their doctor before hot spring soaking.

Trailhead Access

The Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead is on Toketee-Rigdon Road (Forest Road 3401), a short turn off Highway 138 near the Toketee Lake area. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking (as of 2026). Vault toilets are available at the trailhead.

No trail permit required. Dogs are not permitted at the hot springs.

Nearby

The Watson Falls Trail is on Highway 138 nearby and makes a natural stop on the same drive. The North Umpqua Trail Steamboat Section is within an hour's drive west.

Check current conditions at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Follow Leave No Trace 7 Principles, particularly regarding waste and the fragile geothermal spring environment.

Trailhead Parking

Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead on Toketee-Rigdon Road (Forest Road 3401). Small gravel lot. Northwest Forest Pass required for parking as of 2026. Lot fills quickly on weekends.

← Back to Umpqua National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Umpqua Hot Springs Trail take?
The 0.4-mile round trip walk takes 15 to 20 minutes. Most visitors spend 30 minutes to several hours at the pools.
Is the Umpqua Hot Springs Trail dog friendly?
Dogs are not permitted at Umpqua Hot Springs.
What is the water temperature at Umpqua Hot Springs?
The main pool typically ranges from 106 to 112°F depending on season and water flow. Soak times should be kept short at these temperatures; individual heat tolerance varies significantly.