How I did it: some friends and i went hiking just outside of portland in the mt. hood national forest. we ended up at bagby hot springs. what a great treat. we started out by having a little picnic at a nearby waterfall and backtracking to the springs. i was surprised at how well built up they were. the hot water streams in at about 138 degrees. that's hot! they have dug out some big pine trees to make really rustic and appealing bath tubs. there are even ledges where you can put up candles. very thoughtful and romantic.you can choose from private rooms for singles or couples. and there is a bigger area outdoors with three of these tree tubs and a bigger communal hot tub. it's more social and you are right outdoors. you fill the tub with as much streaming hot spring water as you like and scoop in buckets full of fresh cold spring water to achieve your desired temperature. then you just soak and watch the squirrels and chit chat with the amazingly friendly Oregon folk. what a great spot.

Lessons & tips: don't be in a rush to be anywhere else. have drinking water and a towel. don't be put off if you see others ahead of you. there may be a slight wait, but it's worth it.

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Aug 04, 2009, 04:37PM PDT | 0 comments | 4 cheers