- Cougar Hot Springs
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Cougar Hot Springs, officially known as Terwilliger Hot Springs, are geothermal pools located in the Willamette National Forest in the U.S. state of Oregon, 53 miles east of Eugene.[1] The springs drain into Rider Creek, which in turn drains into Cougar Reservoir.[1] They are located about a quarter mile in from Forest Service Road 19, also known as Aufderheide Memorial Drive.[1] They are managed by Hoodoo Recreation Services.[1]
Visitors over the years built up four pools out of river stones.[1] The pools' size ranged from three to twelve feet across and two to three feet deep, that cascade down a hillside. The source is above the topmost pool, where the spring flows out of a rock face at approximately 112 degrees Fahrenheit. Although the pool floors are mostly bedrock, some gravel, sand and debris are at the bottom if the pools haven't been cleaned recently. The springs are often frequented by the residents of nearby Eugene and Bend.
The pools were renovated in 2009. A group of volunteers, led by a Eugene-based stonemason, removed concrete and built pools using a natural mortar. The new walls will be more stable and easier for volunteers to clean.[1] The renovated pools, the construction of which cost an estimated $40,000, are expected to last for generations.[1]
Access to the springs is subject to a fee. For 2010, the rates are $5 per person/per day or $50 per person for a seasonal pass to visit.[1] Clothing is optional,[1] and access is permitted for day-use only.
References
External links
- Friends of Cougar
- Hoodoo Recreation's Cougar page
- Oregon Hot Springs Link
- Thermal Springs List for the United States
- Cougar Hot Spring tips
Coordinates: 44°05′01″N 122°14′25″W / 44.08356°N 122.24023°W
Categories:- Hot springs of Oregon
- Landforms of Lane County, Oregon
- Willamette National Forest
- Lane County, Oregon geography stubs
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