Click here for a nice little video of the hot springs
Terwilliger Hot Springs, also known as Cougar Hot Springs, is a must-go destination, off the beaten path, if you find yourself in Eugene Oregon, or passing through, its worth the side drive to and soak if you have the time. In fact, damn it, you should just make the time, you only live twice right? We were avoiding an icy drive to Bend, OR from Portland, and decided totake the extra long route and head south to Eugene, and head eastbound on Highway 126 (McKenzie Highway) to Bend. We figured it would be the perfect opportunity to sneak in a snowy soak in the hot springs! We still found plenty of snow and ice, but missed the bad stuff. The road to Cougar Resorvoir from HWY 126 (FS-19), gains elevation quite quickly, and if its during the winter, be prepared for snow! It's a beautiful drive, but there's not much of a barrier on those edges, so make sure you are in a rig suitable for the elements.
The first picture is from the parking lot, with a bathroom, and a great view of the reservoir, from there you walk back down the road, over the bridge, to the trail head marker, and fee box. There is sometimes an attendant working the kiosk, otherwise put your $6 (fee price may change), in the box.
Then hike about 1/4 mile in to the hot springs, there is a covered area to change, (or strip), depending on your fancy. This is a clothing optional hot spring, FYI. We only saw one other couple in the lot, and they were just heading home, other than that we had the place to ourselves! It was so beautiful with all the fresh snow, and the water was perfect. We stayed in the top pool, as they get cooler as they go down, and the warmer the better in my book! Especially on such a chilly day.
Directions Taken from The Friends of Cougar website:
From I-5 or Eugene/Springfield, travel east 45 miles on highway 126 (the McKenzie Highway). 5 miles after Blue River, you'll pass the mile post 45 sign. A half mile later, see the sign for Cougar Reservoir and turn right on FS 19.
From Bend, travel west on highway 20. After 20 miles you will pass through Sisters. After the Santiam Pass, you will stay on highway 20 when highway 22 splits off. Soon after, turn left onto highway 126. After another 40-50 miles you will see the sign announcing McKenzie Bridge. 3 miles later, you'll see Harbick's Country Store on your left. This is the only gas between Sisters and Cougar. Continuing west from Harbick's, go another 2 miles until you see the signs pointing to Cougar Reservoir. Turn left on FS19. (see above for directions once on FS19).
On FS 19 you are entering the Willamette Forest. Turn right at the stop sign. After 4 miles, you will pass the dam on your left. Continue on FS 19. Another 4 miles later, on your right you will pass a trail head sign that says "Terwilliger Hot Springs," the waterfall and lagoon on your right and the parking lot on your left. Park there. Walk to the trailhead (100 yards) when you can pay at the kiosk there.
From the trailhead hike 1/4 mile into the Hot Springs located in the forest.
