About Umpqua Hot Springs
Terraced mineral-encrusted pools perched on a hillside above the North Umpqua River in southern Oregon's Umpqua National Forest. The main attraction is the "cave pool" sitting beneath a partial rock overhang formed by centuries of travertine deposition. Orange, cream, and rust-colored mineral formations give the whole area a sculptural look. Additional pools at different levels offer varying temperatures (100-110°F) and views over the old-growth forest canopy to the river canyon below.
Directions to Umpqua Hot Springs
43.2934, -122.3651
From Roseburg, take Highway 138 East about 60 miles along the North Umpqua River. Turn left onto Thorn Prairie Road (FR 34) for 2 miles, then right onto FR 3401 for 2 miles to the trailhead parking on the left. Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful pass required. Trail is 0.3 miles downhill to the river footbridge, then uphill to the springs (stairs and steep sections). From Eugene, about 2.5 hours via Highway 58 south to Highway 138 east.
Best Time to Visit
May through October for the easiest access and best weather. Weekdays are far less crowded than summer weekends. Winter visits can be great but the trail gets icy and the access road may need chains.
Tips
- ✓Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful pass required for trailhead parking.
- ✓Pools hold only a few people each. Arrive early for a quieter soak.
- ✓Clothing-optional; nudity is common. Bring a towel to sit on.
- ✓Trail is slippery when wet or icy; wear good traction shoes, especially October through April.
- ✓Toketee Falls is a short drive away and worth the stop.
- ✓No soap, shampoo, or products in the pools.
- ✓No cell service. Download offline maps and tell someone your plans.
- ✓Bring a headlamp if you plan to soak into the evening; the trail is hard to navigate in the dark.
