Best Things Nearby:
Sol Duc Falls This has got to be one of the most amazing waterfalls I have ever seen. It is actually three waterfalls in one, and you can climb down to sit on the top of it. Be very careful, as the rocks have a tendency to be very slick, and a fall from the top of the falls would most likely be fatal. The trail to the falls is easy, and has a cool historic cabin along the way. There are plenty of longer more strenuous hikes in the area, as well as, hikes to other waterfalls. See the other falls first and save this one for the grand finale.
There are horse stables nearby the resort, and the resort can make arrangements for you. I am afraid of horses, and did not take part in this, but the family at the cabin next to us assured us this was great fun.
Best Things About the Resort:
Hot Springs
This is the main attraction and the reason for coming here. The resort offers three pools at varying temperatures, a swimming pool, and a child’s spring pool. The pools are very clean. There are other natural springs in the park, but they are very muddy. This is a great way to unwind from hiking or the rigors of everyday life. This is a great weekend getaway from Seattle or even Portland. The Hot Springs were very crowded when we there. So if you’re looking for something private this may not be for you.
Resort Experience:
Accommodation
The resort has small cabins for rent or RV hook ups. The cabins are clean and beautiful with comfortable beds. All the cabins have porch swings, an outdoor cooking area. They also provide plenty of towels, which is useful for enjoying the hot springs. The accommodations are very basic in comparison to the grand lodges of other national parks. They run about $100 dollars a night, and do not include the other amenities of the resort, but they also offer package deals.
Dining
The resort restaurant called the The Springs serves healthy spa type meals. It is open for breakfast and dinner, and boasts a decent wine list (with lots of local organic choices). The service was mediocre, but the food was fresh and creative. Given its location in the park, it is probably the best restaurant in a 50-mile radius. There's also a poolside deli, gift shop and grocery store. The deli is open from lunch to early dinner (11-7), and serves and array of choices from sandwiches to soup in bread bowls. It also serves wine and beer, and the deli is more reasonably priced than the grocery. The grocery has a small selection and has very inflated prices. If you are planning to camp nearby or cook your own food at your cabin, buy your food before you arrive.
Massages
The resort offers massages which can enhance the Hot Springs experience. My husband and I both signed up for massages, and had mixed reviews. I enjoyed mine, but my husband felt that it wasn’t worth it. He enjoys a deep tissue sports massage, and thought that the massage wasn’t intense enough. I on the other hand was fully relaxed and rejuvenated by the experience. So I would say, if you’re looking for corrective massage, your money might be better spent elsewhere, but if you’re simply looking for an enjoyable relaxing experience, this is awesome.
- Unit Type: 1 Bedroom
- Activities: Very Good
- Amenities: Excellent
- Unit Satisfaction: Very Good
- Family Friendliness: Very Good
- Service: Good