Gamma Hot Springs is one of the best hot springs in Washington state. If you're willing to put in the effort to visit Gamma Hot Springs, you won't be disappointed!
Gamma Hot Springs in Washington is very hard and sometimes confusing to access. The hike in should only be attempted by those who have backcountry hiking experience and mountaineering skills. It's located in Glacier Peak Wilderness, just below Gamma Peak, and is only accessible via a 32-mile hike.
Where is Gamma Hot Springs?
Gamma Hot Springs is a tough-to-access wilderness destination deep within Glacier Peak Wilderness. It requires miles and miles of hiking and at least one overnight. Use the maps below, along with our researched trail information, to help inform your trip to Gamma Hot Springs.
We haven't been to Gamma Hot Springs yet, but we've spent some time gathering all the data we could find on the hike in. This means that you'll need to do your own research, check weather conditions, and analyze your own skills (and if they match the terrain!) before beginning your hike.
How to Get to Gamma Hot Springs
Use the map below to navigate to the trailhead for Gamma Hot Springs:
Gamma Hot Springs Hike
Ready to hike to Gamma Hot Springs? Well, you better be prepared for a multi-day. It's deep in Glacier Peak Wilderness and will require around 32 miles of hiking to get there.
Gamma Hot Springs Trailhead
Note: this is an incomplete analysis of the trail to Gamma Hot Springs, so make sure to do your own research, check the weather, and bring all necessary gear.
The Gamma Hot Springs hike begins at the Suiattle River Trailhead. It's near Darrington, Washington, and at the far end of Suiattle River Road.
Hiking to Gamma Hot Springs
Note: The following directions are inspired by online research, Google Maps, and various trip reports. Make sure to do your own research regarding how to find and follow the trails. Mountain Zone has great additional information.
The trail starts along the Suiattle River Trail. You'll stay on this trail for 11 miles until you intersect with the PCT at around 2,400 feet.
At this junction, you'll take a right turn and go south along the PCT until (The PCT section is pretty flat and runs for 2.9 miles.)
2.9 miles in, you'll take a left and keep your eyes peeled for a sign marking Upper Suiattle River Trail (or trail 798). Here, take a left.
You'll follow this trail for about 1.6 miles until you reach another intersection. Turn right onto Gamma Ridge Trail #791 and go towards Gamma Peak. The trail gains elevation slowly before going steeply uphill along some switchbacks.
You'll follow the trail along the ridge to Gamma Peak and cross the first gulley (after passing a campsite). There is a steep slope ahead and, when snow-covered, may present a difficult barrier for those seeking out Gamma Hot Springs.
From here, climbing gear may be a necessity. At least an ice axe, but some people have recommended around 50 feet of rope to make the descent easier.
From the campsite, you'll only have about 0.5 miles until you arrive at the turn-off for the hot springs. Turn right here and follow the ridge down. This is a relatively dangerous area, so keeping your wits about you is a necessity.
Keep your eyes open, and make sure that you follow the trail, as it can be hard to find. There is a trail between Gamma Creek and a smaller tributary. The trail descends the ridge and takes you steeply downhill. In a mile and a half or so, you'll reach the intersection between Gamma Creek and the smaller tributary. Cross the tributary and follow down Gamma Creek for about 0.3 miles.
Gamma Hot Springs is nearby and can be a little tricky to find. It's a small pool on an open slope. The water can be hot, reaching 150F, but with the nearby river, you can make sure the temperature says at a good level.
There are a few nearby cleared campsites.
Gamma Hot Springs Location
Via google research, Gamma Hot Springs is at the location below:
Other Washington Hot Springs
Gamma Hot Springs is often cited as one of the best hot springs in Washington. If you don't want to make the long hike in and are looking for something more accessible, you might want to check out:
Scenic Hot Springs
A spring on private property in the North Cascades. It's near Steven's Pass outside Leavenworth, Washington. It's accessed via a 2-hour hike.
Goldmyer Hot Springs
Another spring in the North Cascades. It's near North Bend, east of Seattle. It's a rustic and popular destination that only allows 20 people at a time.
Carson Hot Springs
Located in the Columbia River Gorge, Carson Hot Springs is only 10 minutes from Portland on the Washington border. There is no hike required!