Bagby Hot Springs

About 45 minutes south of Estacada, Oregon, is the most elaborate natural hot springs setup I have ever seen. After missing a turn and taking the scenic route up a mountain, I made a note of the coordinates to post here. But, wouldn't you know, I lost that paper. It's about 45 minutes southeast of Estacada, mostly down 224. Ask in town for better directions.

Oregon towns seem to love murals which is nice because I do too. Estacada had some vivid ones. I liked this Shakespearean based one.


And this lovely Oregon scene. (The clouds are real, not part of the painting.)


Then it was off to Bagby Hot Springs.


The beautiful 1 1/2 mile trail is through an old growth forest.


With some super-constructed bridges.


The hot (very hot) water comes from this tiny spring and runs through a log trough . .


Into private log tubs like this one or round group tubs. If the water is too hot, buckets are available to use for fetching cold water from a nearby source.


As you can see, there are plenty of big logs to use for construction.

Now, I am not actually a fan of hot springs. Not only do I not enjoy sitting in very hot water, all I can think about is 'bacteria.' I know, I'm pathetic. But Bagby is worth visiting for the lovely hike and the amazing construction that has been done there as a cooperative effort of the locals and the forest service. Check it out if you're ever in the area, just not on a weekend like we did. Estacada is southeast of Portland.