OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK — A Silverdale man has been found dead in a pool at Olympic Hot Springs, said a park spokeswoman today.
Rangers found Bruce Gunderson, 61, dead in the pool Monday after receiving a report of a fatality at the hot springs in the Elwha Valley, said Rainey McKenna of Olympic National Park.
The cause of death is under investigation, she said, adding that natural causes are suspected.
The pools have been closed to public use for health and safety concerns, McKenna said.
“Although use of Olympic Hot Springs has always been at the discretion and risk of the visitor, we have closed the pools until further notice due to public health and safety concerns following this tragic incident,” said park Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum.
Olympic Hot Springs are natural, unmaintained hot water seeps located about 2.5 miles from the Boulder Creek Trailhead in the Elwha Valley.
The pools are in a wilderness area and not tested or treated by the park.
Boulder Creek Campground will remain open.
