• Hot Lake Springs is a historic hotel on the shore of one of the largest hot springs in the world
The Lodge at Hot Lake Springs is located 9 miles southeast of La Grande in the southern part of the Grande Ronde Valley of Union County. Built in the early 1900s, it is a notable example of the Colonial Revival style. The historic hotel sits on the shore of one of the largest hot springs in the world.
Nestled at the northern base of a small, treeless hill, the lodge offers sweeping views of a mountain-lined valley. The Blue Mountains lie to the west, and the Wallowa to the east.
A road and parking area split the large hot lake into two smaller sections. The west lake features public pools and showers.
The hot water at Hot Lake Springs is sourced from an artesian well that produces nearly 3 million gallons of 200°F geothermal water daily. This water is mixed with cold water before being pumped into the hot tubs. Free from any unpleasant smell or taste, the mineral water is safe to drink and is available throughout the hotel.
Overnight guests can enjoy unlimited bathing access 24 hours a day. Additionally, day-use options are available with soaking pass reservations, which can be made through the Lodge at Hot Lake Springs website.
The Lodge at Hot Lake Springs's main focus is not only "taking in the waters" but also enjoying the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere while absorbing the rich history of the region.
A Glimpse into History
Hot Lake Springs has a rich history of prosperity and decline.
The area was a sacred site for healing, known by the Nez Perce tribe as Ea-Kesh-Pa. In 1812, a man from the Hunt-Price expedition discovered the large steaming lake.
Hot Lake Springs became a popular destination for the early fur traders and slowly became a rest spot for those traveling along the Oregon Trail.
In 1864, Newhard with his partner built the first wooden structure. The 'Town Under One Roof’ progressed into a covered shopping mall and later, by the end of 1908, into a grand three-story brick hotel.
In 1917, Dr. Phy purchased the Hot Lake Hotel and transformed the third floor into a hospital known as the 'Mayo Clinic of the West.' The crowds flocking to the Hot Lake continued to grow until a sudden Sunday fire in the early 1930s destroyed the eastern part of the resort.
Over the next 70 years, the property was the beneficiary of multiple grants and changed owners several times.
During World War II, the property was repurposed as a pilot training school and nurses' training center.
As time progressed, multiple business models were adopted to restore Hot Lake Springs, and all were unsuccessful. In 1994, the Hot Lake property was parceled out, and Hot Lake Springs and the RV Resort became separate units with different owners.
David and Lee Manuel bought the Hot Lake property in 2003 and started a long restoration process. In 2010, Hot Lake Springs opened its doors for overnight guests. In 2020, the owners of Grande Hot Springs, located a mile away, acquired the property and continued its restoration.
Hot Lake Hotel is reputedly haunted, according to numerous ghost stories. In 2001, the American paranormal reality show on ABC Family reported the hotel as one of the "Scariest Places on Earth." While the truth of these scary stories remains uncertain, the historic hotel attracts thrill-seekers looking for paranormal adventures.
In 1979, Hot Lake Hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Beyond Hot Springs: Other Adventures
The Thermal Pub & Eatery at Hot Lake Springs & Hotel offers a range of delicious food and drink options. A movie theater with food and beer service is also open from Thursday to Sunday.
In the surrounding area, there are other natural hot springs to explore, including neighboring Grande Hot Springs and Cove Warm Springs, located 12 miles away. Cove Warm Springs offers refreshing swimming opportunities in natural mineral water with a consistent temperature of around 86°F.
A wildlife preservation sanctuary, the 3,200-acre Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is situated just four miles away. It provides critical habitats for the breeding, nesting, and migration of birds. The area also offers winding hiking trails through untouched wetlands, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Lodging & Camping
The Lodge at Hot Lake Springs offers cozy, elegantly furnished rooms, some featuring soaking tubs and showers. The reservation is available through Airbnb.
The closest RV and tent campground is located just one mile away at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort.
Also, the lodging is available in La Grande, 9 miles northwest.
Hot Lake Springs | Facts
Location: 9 miles southeast of La Grande • Northeastern Oregon • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Historical hotel, hot tubs
Clothing: Required
Amenities: A restaurant, movie theater, kitchen and daily breakfast for overnight guests
Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: Any vehicle
Day-use: For overnight guests only; walk-ins option $25/hour for a person
Elevation: 2,800 ft (853 m)
Water T° (source): 200°F (93°С)
Water acidity level: Alkaline (pH=9.5)
Type of the springs: Sodium Chloride
Flow rate: 1,506 gallon/min (5,700 l/min)
Chemical used: None
| Cations
Sodium (Na) - 128 Mg/L |
Anions
Chloride (Cl) - 129 Mg/L |
More Adventures
Directions to Hot Lake Springs
From I-84,
- Take exit 265 to OR-203 toward La Grande
- Follow 5.3 miles to OR-203 S, turn right onto OR-203 S and continue for 5 miles to the destination.
Phone: (541)963-4685
hotlakesprings.com
i am looking for a retreat of a couple nights. do you have available rooms? me and wife and small dog? if not ok ill look elsewere if so what do you have to offer and cost. thank a u