The Best Hot Springs Near Sisters

They’re warm, they’re relaxing, and they’re often surrounded by natural scenic beauty that soothes your mind as well as your muscles. We’re talking, of course, about Oregon’s many breathtaking hot springs. 

These geothermal wonders dot the mountainous wilderness around the state, offering adventurous explorers a true spa experience in a more natural (and often more affordable) setting. If you’re visiting the area around Sisters, your rental is a short drive away from several of the area’s best hot springs! It’s a perfect chance to plan a day-trip full of wonder and wellness (the perfect recipe for any great vacation). 

For a real chance to soak in the Oregon scenery, here are the best hot springs near Sisters:

Paulina Lake

Drive Time: 1 Hour 15 Mins

Fee: $5 or Northwest Forest Pass

Open: Summer (May to September)

Deep in the Deschutes National Forest along the shores of Paulina Lake sits a series of primitive hot springs that offer the perfect setting for a blissful escape. These five geothermal pools offer varying temperatures between 90 and 115 degrees, a direct contrast to the naturally cool water of the lake just steps away. Their naturally secluded location gives you ultimate privacy, while the driftwood-dug pools and inspirational lake views will make you feel like you’re relaxing in a true Nordic spa.

The Hot Spur Trail, an easy 1.2-mile trek from the trailhead at Little Crater Campground, is the fastest way to reach the springs. If you’re up for some adventure, the 7.5-mile loop around the scenic Paulina Lakeshore Loop is well worth the work.  

Terwilliger Hot Springs

Drive Time: 1 Hour 19 Minutes

Fee: $7 Per Person

Open: Year-Round

The Terwilliger Hot Springs are a must-do wellness experience. Also known as Cougar Hot Springs, the site offers six private soaking pools surrounded by the lush wilderness of the Willamette National Forest. The springs are tiered and separated by rock walls, climbing in temperature from 85 degrees in the lower pool to a steamy 112 degrees at the top. They’re fed by Rider Creek Waterfall, offering bathers a relaxing crash of water to serenade their soaking. 

Bigelow Hot Springs

Drive Time: 1 Hour 9 Minutes

Fee: Free

Open: Year-Round

This hidden gem is a small 2-4 person pool nestled in the northern bank of the McKenzie River in the Willamette National Forest. Its scenic site is separated from the river by rocks, surrounded by a stunning fern grotto, and filled with warm spring water from the bottom-up. It’s perfect for soaking in the summer and fall when temperatures hover around 103 degrees; during the winter, the river’s frigid water makes it too cold for comfort. Due to its small size and high popularity, it’s best to go during the week to avoid the crowds. Note: clothing is strictly optional. 

Belknap Hot Springs

Drive Time: 53 Minutes

Fee: $8 to $15 (day-use)

Open: Year-Round

Belknap Hot Springs Resort offers an easy and family-friendly soaking experience for everyone in the group over 2. Located along the banks of the McKenzie River, the resort includes two large concrete swimming pools fed by nearby mineral hot springs for a warm and relaxing swim. The lower pool is open to the public and is kept a balmy 92 degrees in the summer and a steamy 102 degrees in the winter, making it perfect for soaking year-round. When dusk falls the pool is lit with changing colors, adding a unique ambiance to the peacefully rising steam. 

Book Your Stay with Sisters Vacation Rentals Today!

When the hot springs turn your hands and feet pruney, you’ll need a great rental to return to. Our Sisters, Oregon vacation rentals are a short drive from every hot spring on the list and offer great amenities to keep you in luxurious comfort long after you’ve dried off!

If your favorite thing about the hot springs is the quiet seclusion, you’ll love our Sisters Dream Inn. This private mountain cabin sits on two acres of lush pine forest, keeping you close to the convenience of town but far from prying eyes.