Cougar Hot Springs, Natural hot springs in Willamette National Forest, Oregon, US.
Cougar Hot Springs is a series of five rock pools arranged in cascading tiers beneath a thick forest canopy that collect mineral-rich water flowing from an underground spring into the McKenzie River. Each basin receives water naturally and creates a sequence of bathing areas at different elevations.
Native American tribes used these geothermal waters for their healing properties for centuries before European settlers found them in the 1800s. This extended history of human use shaped the region and established the site as a meeting place across different groups.
The site is known for its clothing-optional bathing tradition, where visitors follow unwritten social codes that reflect mutual respect and consideration among those who gather here.
Visitors should expect a short forest walk of about 0.6 km (0.4 miles) and allow time to settle in and enjoy the pools at a relaxed pace. The best visits happen on quieter days and outside peak hours for a more peaceful experience.
Each pool has a slightly different temperature that gradually drops from the source, allowing different visitors to find their preferred bathing experience. This natural temperature gradient makes it possible for anyone to discover a basin that matches their comfort level.
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