Sol Duc Hot Springs Hotel Port Angeles, Port Angeles, Washington

Sol Duc Hot Springs Hotel offers seclusion and activity in Olympic National Park

Tucked away in the old-growth forests of Olympic National Park, Sol Duc Hot Springs and Hotel provide a lovely retreat for families of all ages. Featuring a smattering of cabins throughout the property and a newly-renovated lodge, the facility has done much to increase asthetics in the past few years. Cabins house up to six people, and can be adjoining or separate. They are not fancy, and do not offer much beyond beds, bathroom facilities, and a porch, but they are clean and also have undergone some upgrades. The whole point is to entice guests to the lodge and famous hot spring pools (3 total), where soaking in the mineral water is said to soothe many an ailment, or parental frazzled nerve… A small restaurant is on site, but can be crowded in the summer months. There is a small gift shop with sundries and a few small snack items, but guests should be aware that there are NO services for miles besides what is available at the lodge. The pools are traditional hot springs, with little chlorine, so guests are required to shower thoroughly before entering. Like Goldilocks, the temperatures are hot, medium, and “just right” in the form of a large swimming pool. Some pool toys are allowed; check with resort staff. If you don’t want to stay at the property, or are camping in the adjacent campground (great), one can secure a day pass to the pools, very, very nice after a day of hiking.

Tips for Families

Bring snacks, juice or milk boxes, and everything needed for small children’s (or infants’) comfort; no stores are available for many miles. Take advantage of the wonderful hiking trails, especially to tumbling Sol Duc Falls. DO NOT go beyond the fenced area – the falls are steep and the rocks, slippery. Drive within the park to other hiking/walking trails, and schedule time for a ranger presentation at the campground. Watch for deer, listen for owls, and enjoy the scenery; Sol Duc is a magical place. The occasional black bear will wander through the area, so secure food and smelly items in a car or cabin.