Idaho’s unique geological location offers countless hot springs to enjoy. Some are well-known, others are not. Either way, there’s really no better way to “soak up” our state’s magic than to soak in it. Below are seven hot springs to check out during any season.
1. Boat Box Hot Springs
This spring flows into what appears to be an old mining cauldron. There’s room for only three or four soakers, and that’s a COZY fit. While the water running down the pipes and into the unit is scalding, there’s usually a white bucket next to the cauldron that can be used to transport cold river water into it. The view of the Salmon River, coupled with the easy access to the spring, puts Boat Box Hot Springs toward the top of my all-time list.
From the “T” in Stanley, head north up State Highway 75 for about three and a half miles. You’ll pass through Lower Stanley and by a few campgrounds before you reach the small pull-off on the right side of the road. The pull-off can only fit two or three cars and is easy to miss, so be on the lookout for steam rising from the river area.
2. Rocky Canyon Hot Springs
This three-tiered spring requires a river crossing during the summer months when it’s safe to wade across at low levels. It sits right above the Middle Fork of the Payette River and is maybe the closest hot spring to Boise on this list. Take South Middle Fork Road for 12 miles from downtown Crouch. The road will turn to gravel after about eight miles, and a small pull-off on the left will signal the parking area after the remaining four miles. Look for steam across the river and pools on the hillside, and you’ve arrived at Rocky Canyon Hot Springs. There are some unique spots to camp along the roadside. On your way back through Crouch, be sure to stop at Two Rivers Grill for a tasty bite.
3. Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs
Located just 35 minutes outside of Sun Valley along Warm Springs Road is Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs, snuggled up against some large boulders along the gravel road. These are fairly well-known springs and see a lot of traffic during weekends and holidays. Fall is a great time to hit this spot because of the vibrant colors of the surrounding trees. As a general rule of thumb, fall is simply a great time to be in Sun Valley.
4. Kirkham Hot Springs
Kirkham Hot Springs is perhaps Idaho’s most famous hot spring. Located five miles north of Lowman on State Highway 21, visitors should be ready to socialize while they soak. This is also a popular campground, so this is sure to be a bustling area during the summer months. Although busy, Kirkham Hot Springs is famous for a reason: numerous pools of varying temperatures await you at the bottom of a wooden staircase. Warm water falls over the cliffside into a pool below that literally feels like a hot shower.
5. Trail Creek Hot Springs
Located 35 minutes from Cascade along Warm Lake Road is Trail Creek Hot Springs. Once you’ve arrived, pull off into the large dirt turn-out on the right side of the road. Hike down the steep path to find two immaculate, carefully crafted pools above a storybook creek. A network of pipes strategically mixes the spring’s hot water with the creek’s cold water to provide an optimal soaking experience. I’ve hit Trail Creek Hot Springs in the winter as well as the summer and can confirm that both seasons are worthy of a stop. Just be sure to wear ice cleats, as the paths to the hot spring can be very icy.
6. Mountain Village Lodge
I’ve stayed at the Mountain Village Lodge in Stanley maybe half a dozen times. Each time I check in, I’m sure to reserve a spot at the hot spring the next morning for a sunrise soak. The spring sits about a quarter mile from the lodge in an old barn beside the river. Sip on a cup of joe and open the barn doors to view the Sawtooth Mountains in all their glory.
7. Burgdorf Hot Springs
Visiting Burgdorf Hot Springs is like stepping back in time and is something every Idahoan should experience. You can rent old wood cabins, but don’t expect five-star accommodations. In fact, don’t even expect electricity. In the midst of the historic cabins, you’ll find a community hot spring large enough for an entire football team, reserves and all. During the winter months, Burgdorf Hot Springs can only be accessed by snowmobile. Last year we rallied up there for a buddy’s bachelor party and had the time of our lives backcountry skiing and soaking. The resort has been around for many years, and it’s awesome to hear my dad talk about his adventures there in the 80s.
Unfortunately, not everyone respects our beautiful state or participates in the outdoors responsibly. We like to pack a trash bag in order to leave the springs cleaner than we found them, and I encourage you to do so as well!
All images, including feature image, are credited to Dusty Klein.
Dusty Klein is a Boise-based outdoor photographer who enjoys capturing moments of his adventures around our beautiful state. Follow his travels on Instagram.
Published on October 6, 2016
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