A strenuous 3-day backpacking adventure for experienced hikers seeking remote wilderness soaks in Washington's Cascade Range.
Duration
3 days
Distance
~30+ miles hiking
Difficulty
expert
Vehicle
awd 4wd
Best Season
Late summer (August-September) when high elevations are snow-free
2 springs need verification before departure. Check conditions and official sources before visiting.
Hike 4.5 miles through old-growth forest to Goldmyer Hot Springs. Camp at designated wilderness sites near the springs.
Springs
A challenging 10-mile hike to Gamma Hot Springs, one of Washington's most remote and spectacular wilderness soaks. Return to camp or establish a higher camp.
Springs
Hike out via the Suiattle River Trail, celebrating your wilderness achievement. Stop for a final soak at Goldmyer if time allows.
The Glacier Peak Wilderness Challenge is not for the faint of heart. This three-day backpacking trip takes you deep into the Glacier Peak Wilderness, one of the most rugged and remote areas of the North Cascades. You’ll visit two of Washington’s most legendary wilderness hot springs, accessible only by hiking through old-growth forest and alpine terrain.
This itinerary is rated expert for a reason. You need to be an experienced backpacker with strong navigation skills, the right gear for variable mountain weather, and the physical fitness to cover 10+ miles with a full pack on steep, sometimes unmaintained trails.
Warning: This itinerary involves significant backcountry risk. Do not attempt without:
- Solid backpacking experience and fitness
- Navigation skills (map, compass, GPS) — cell service is nonexistent
- Bear canister or approved food storage (bears are active in this area)
- Emergency communication device (Garmin inReach or similar) recommended
- Current trail condition research — the Suiattle River Trail has washed out in recent years
Goldmyer is managed by the Northwest Wilderness Institute, a non-profit that limits access to preserve the wilderness experience. You must reserve in advance at goldmyer.org. The property is caretaker-stewarded and has a capacity limit. Cost is approximately $20/person.
Gamma is the real challenge. The trailhead access involves a steep, eroded route that can be difficult to follow. The final approach to the springs involves scrambling over large boulders. Do not attempt in wet conditions — the rock is slick and falls are dangerous. The springs themselves are small and can be hot; test temperatures carefully before entering.
The hike to Goldmyer follows the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Trail for 4.5 miles through magnificent old-growth forest. The springs emerge from a hillside at about 145°F and are channeled through a series of cedar-plank pools that cool the water to a comfortable 105-110°F. A small bathhouse provides changing space, and a wood-fired sauna is available in cooler months.
The stewardship organization maintains a few rustic campsites near the springs. There is no potable water — treat or filter river water.
Gamma is accessed from the Suiattle River Trail, which connects to the Pacific Crest Trail. The route to the springs involves ~10 miles of hiking from the Suiattle trailhead, with significant elevation gain. The springs are in a spectacular alpine setting at the base of Gamma Peak, with small pools tucked among granite boulders.
Note: The Suiattle River Road (Forest Road 26) has been impacted by washouts in recent years. Check current road and trail conditions at the Darrington Ranger District before planning your trip.