The Warring Dragons Legend of Sol Duc Hot Springs

Along the Sol Duc River twelve miles down Sol Duc Road, you’ll find healing waters of hot springs. Native American legend tells how the springs were created by dragons.

“Once there were two dragons. One lived in the Sol Duc Valley and the other lived in the Elwha Valley. Neither dragon knew of the other’s existence. One day they were both out exploring the forest when they came face to face on top of the ridge separating the Elwha and Sol Duc Valleys. They exploded with anger as each accused the other of invading its territory.

“The fight was brutal as the dragons thrashed and ripped at each other to win back their territory. After years of fighting and clawing at each other, they grew frustrated. Their strength was evenly matched and neither could win. The dragons both admitted defeat and crawled back to caves in their respective valleys and are still crying over being defeated. The dragons’ hot tears are the source of the hot springs in the Elwha and Sol Duc Valleys.” Source

Today, the Hot Springs Resort is best known for its soaking pools, hot tubs, and a swimming pool that are heated with the hot springs. The resort is situated in a valley carved by the Sol Duc River.