A stunning sunset at Paulina Lake Hot Springs in Central Oregon, with snow-covered shores and majestic Cascade mountains in the background.
Paulina Lake Hot Springs, nestled within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument in Deschutes National Forest, is your gateway to a unique winter experience. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the snowy landscape and offering natural geothermal pools, this area is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re looking to snowshoe or ski your way to a warm soak, Paulina Lake Hot Springs has something special for everyone. Ready to dive into this winter wonder? Let’s explore this comprehensive guide to plan your visit!
Quick Overview
📍 Location: Paulina Lake Hot Springs, Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Deschutes National Forest
🏙️ Closest Town: La Pine, OR (23 miles)
🅿️ Parking Details: Winter access from Ten Mile Sno-Park
Sno-Park permit required; $4/day, $9/3-day, or $25/season.
💙 Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing (to reach hot springs); snowmobiling (within Caldera but not directly to springs)
⚙️ Trails: Ungroomed, requiring snowshoes or skis for hot springs access
🐶 Dog Policy: Dogs allowed but must be leashed at all times
🚻 Restrooms: Parking Lot
Why Visit Paulina Lake Hot Springs?
Paulina Lake Hot Springs is unique for its geothermal activity, offering a warm oasis in the midst of winter’s chill. The hot springs are formed by volcanic activity beneath the surface, providing a rare opportunity to enjoy natural hot pools surrounded by snow. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with the added benefit of being in a culturally significant area.
Heads-Up!
- Busy Times: Weekends and holidays see more visitors; weekdays or early mornings offer a quieter experience.
- Snow Conditions: Winter conditions can vary; check local weather reports.
- Essential Gear: Dress in layers, bring navigation tools, and pack extra water; remember, you’ll need snowshoes or skis for the trek.
Plan Your Visit
Step 1: Buy Your Permit
Permits are required November 1st – April 30th
| Cost | ||
|---|---|---|
| Annual: $25 | 3-Day (consecutive): $9 | Daily: $4 |
Where to Buy
Local Vendors in Bend, Oregon:
*Agents may charge an additional service fee, though you are directly supporting locals. Call ahead to confirm availability:
Click to Expand List
Weston’s Corner Inc – (541) 480-0021
Ace Hardware – (541) 389-9094
Butler Market South – (541) 383-0146
C E Lovejoy’s Brookswood Market – (541) 388-1188
Keith G Walls – (541) 678-4848
Mountain Supply of Oregon – (541) 388-0688
Pine Mountain Sports – (541) 385-8080
Powder House Inc – (541) 389-6234
Project Bike – (541) 550-6840
REI Bend – (541) 385-0975
Rudy’s Markets Inc – (541) 382-3940
Skjersaas – (541) 389-4224
Stand on Liquid – (541) 639-4596
Sunnyside Sports – (541) 382-8018
The Gear Fix LLC – (541) 617-0022
Visit Bend – (541) 382-8048
Webcyclery & Webskis – (541) 318-6188
Buy Online
We encourage you to support locals and buy from a vendor mentioned above; though if you must, online purchase available
Step 2: Choose Your Activity and Download Maps
- Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing: Essential to reach the hot springs.
- Snowmobiling: Can be used to get closer to the Caldera but not directly to the springs.
- Download Trail Maps & Apps:
- Forest Service Trail Maps & App
Step 3: Choose Your Trail
- Trail Difficulty Levels: Moderate due to the distance and snow conditions.
- Ungroomed Trails: The path to the hot springs is not groomed, offering a true winter adventure.
- Need Help Deciding? Book a private consultation for tailored advice on trails, gear, and local insights.
Step 4: Get Directions
- From Bend: Drive 32 miles south on Hwy 97, then turn left onto Paulina Lake Road (NF-21).
- Ten Mile Sno-Park: Follow Ponderosa Rim Trail to Paulina Lake, then trek clockwise around the lake to the hot springs.
- Paulina Lake Trailhead or Resort: A direct path along the lakeshore.
Right-Of-Way
Trail etiquette is an important topic, especially for seasoned locals who are well-versed in the “dos and don’ts” of groomed trail use. However, if you’re new to Nordic skiing or snowshoeing, understanding these unspoken rules can feel like a challenge. Here’s a simple breakdown of the key points to keep in mind:
- Yielding Right-of-Way: Downhill skiers have precedence; snowshoers yield to skiers.
- Passing on Trails: Stay right, pass left, and communicate your intentions.
- Snowshoer Guidelines: Avoid walking on ski tracks to preserve the trail quality.
A Different Approach: RESPECT
While these tips are essential for enjoying the trails, at Recreation Leader, we believe in going beyond rules and fostering connection through our RESPECT Your Recreation ethos. Rather than focusing solely on etiquette, we encourage outdoor adventurers to embrace respect for themselves, others, and the outdoors.
Recommended Gear for Cross-Country Skiing
Having the right gear can transform your experience. Here are our top recommendations to help you get started:
| Category | Gear |
|---|---|
| Cross-Country Skis Packages (all-in-one designed to get you started without breaking the bank) | Before I invested in some black diamonds, I bought the following package and it was perfect for getting started without breaking the bank. Click on the appropriate link based on your weight: Whitewoods 75mm 3Pin Cross Country Ski Package; Boots, Bindings, Poles, Skis: For Skiers 90-120 lbs For Skiers 121-150 lbs For skiers 151-180 lbs For Skiers 180 lbs & Up |
| Ski + Trekking Poles | You definitely want a versatile pole that works for hiking too! Cork is where it’s at, helps with grip and sweat and feels better on your hands. I use these ones: Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles |
| Boot Harness | These look 🔥. If I didn’t have boots already I would have bought these. These allow you to clip into the skis using the shoes you already have! Be sure to buy the ones that work for your binding: https://nordic-step.com/ |
| Accessories | Adjustable straps to bind your skis together for storage and to carry easier. |
Transform Your Adventure
Are you ready to turn your visit to Paulina Lake Hot Springs into an unforgettable experience? With a Private Consultation, you’ll gain insider knowledge and personalized guidance to feel confident, prepared, and excited for your adventure.
Here’s what’s waiting for you:
✅ Discover Your Perfect Fit: Whether it’s snowshoeing, or classic skiing, we’ll match you with the activity that aligns with your skills and goals.
✅ Tailored Trail Recommendations: Get exclusive insight into the best trails and hidden gems for your skill level—no more guessing, just pure enjoyment.
✅ Gear Made Simple: Learn exactly what skis, poles, boots, and accessories suit you, with tips on the best local shops or online deals.
✅ Bonus Natural History Guide: Dive into a free guide on the unique beauty of Central Oregon’s natural wonders to enhance your connection to the outdoors.
