Did you know that Idaho is home to more than 150 soakable hot springs? Many of these springs are far off the beaten path, but that just adds to the allure of these backcountry oases. But there are many more that are a bit more accessible and a bit more developed for those who don’t want to hike 10 miles only to soak in a leaking rock pool that fluctuates between unbearably hot and bone-chillingly cold.
If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at visiting a natural hot spring then Idaho is the perfect state with so many to choose from! Just remember to always soak responsibly, be courteous to other guests, and leave the springs in better shape than you found them.
So, without further ado, let’s head out and discover some hot springs in the Gem State.
Kirkham Hot Springs
Kirkham Hot Springs is one of the most easily accessible hot springs in the entire state. It is located just east of Lowman along Highway 21 just off the south side of the river. Getting to the springs requires parking at a locked gate, paying the $5 day use fee, and crossing the bridge to area that features soaking pools and small waterfalls.
Please note that this area is heavily monitored and is open only between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Goldbug Hot Springs
Goldbug Hot Springs is one of the most difficult springs to reach, with a 4-mile hike and over 1,000 feet of elevation gain. The end result is worth it, though, as the views from the hand-built rock pools are stunningly beautiful. The springs themselves are located near the town of Salmon and require crossing a small stretch of private property. Luckily, the owners have allowed hikers to use the trail, but inconsiderate users could ruin this for everyone, so tread lightly through this section!
Boat Box Hot Springs
Boat Box Hot Springs is another Idaho hot spring available right off the highway. This means that you won’t often have these springs to yourself, but in the end, that’s okay, as these natural soaking pools were meant to be enjoyed by all. This spring used to be unique in that a custom soaking tub was installed that could be filled with just the right mix of hot and cold water. Unfortunately, flood waters washed the tub away, so now you’re back to the old-school rock pools found in many natural hot springs.
The springs themselves are located just east of Stanley, so if you’re in the area, they are easy to check out.
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a relaxing soak where it is just you and nature then Jerry Johnson Hot Springs may not be the spot. Despite a mile walk into the three-pooled springs that feature a warm-water waterfall(!!), this area is heavily trafficked by nearby campers, river rafters, and college students from nearby Missoula. Because of this, the springs are open for day use only, so your best bet to enjoy a relaxing soak is to show up early or try to make the trek during the winter months.
Trail Creek Hot Springs
Located in Boise National Forest, Trail Creek Hot Springs features two different rock pools with a pipe feeding in hot water from the springs. The spring’s location close to Boise, along with its being right off of the road (although a short and steep hike is required), makes it one of the busiest hot springs in the state.
One nice feature of these springs is that the temperature can be regulated through a set of valves. You can increase or decrease the amount of hot water or cold water flowing into the pools to set up the perfect soaking experience.
Sunbeam Hot Springs
Another hot spring just down the road from the town of Stanley, Sunbeam Hot Springs, offers a few more amenities than Boat Box Hot Springs, with restrooms and changing rooms. The springs here are a series of rock-walled pools that sit along the Salmon River and are fed by hot spring water that runs down the hillside. During high water season in the spring, the pools may be submerged and too cool for soaking, so plan your visit accordingly.
Lava Hot Springs
If hiking in the woods and soaking in a rustic pool isn’t your style then hop across the state to Lava Hot Springs. This year-round resort features indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, and even a waterslide into an Olympic-sized swimming pool! This resort is not free but the prices are very reasonable to spend the day soaking your worries away.
Sacajawea Hot Springs
Just a short walk down the road from the nearby Sawtooth Lodge, Sacajawea Hot Springs is another user-built spring with pools located along the river. The user experience with these pools depends heavily on the flow of the river as the temperatures can rise well above comfort levels with too little river water, yet too much river water can quickly cool the pools down too much. Finding the right balance is often a matter of luck but the springs are right off the road, so it’s easy to stop by to check out the current conditions.
Pine Flats Hot Springs
Last but certainly not least is another Idaho hot spring that features a warm-water waterfall flowing directly into the spring’s pools. Pine Flats Hot Springs features a series of pools that range from almost impossibly hot at the top to a bit too cool at the bottom. Luckily, at least one pool usually sits at just the right temperature for a leisurely soak. The springs are located near Pine Flats Campground, which keeps the area fairly busy during most of the season, so an early arrival may be key to finding some solitude.
Bring cash, as there is a $5 day use fee to park and use the springs.
