Hot springs are abundant in Idaho’s central mountain ranges, making them one of the top reasons people love visiting Idaho. These are a great way to spend a day or two exploring the outdoors in the state.
Some of the best hot springs are in Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest and Salmon-Challis. But the state is dotted with them, some of which you will need to hike to, and others that are easily accessible for anyone not able to make a strenuous hike. And they’re some of the best-kept!
The longevity of a hot spring depends on how well it is maintained. Follow the proper camping restrictions and stay on designated trails to ensure that the natural features remain clean and inviting.
1. Stanley Hot Springs
The trail that leads to Stanley Hot Springs enters the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness after about two miles. There are several tent sites near the hot springs, and the sites farther back offer privacy. The trail then continues past the springs to the Seven Lakes Basin.
The Stanley Hot Springs can be reached from a 5.5-mile uphill climb. The trail crosses Boulder Creek, which can be extremely dangerous during spring runoff. Stanley Hot Springs also offers a secluded retreat on Huckleberry Creek.
The Stanley Hot Springs is located in a canyon wall above a cold-water creek. The multiple rock pools near the springs collect the water from the stream for an enjoyable bath. Although two pools are big enough to accommodate a large group, the area has fewer people due to the six-mile trail.
How to get there
Stanley Hot Springs is a 2.5 hr drive from Lewiston, Idaho. Take US-12 East and drive until you reach forest road 1649-A. Park up at Wilderness Gateway and hike the 5.5 miles to the hot springs.
Where to stay near Stanley Hot Springs
- Wilderness Gateway Campground – Located right at the trailhead to the Hot springs and is the closest place to stay if you want to spend a good amount of time in the area.
- Lochsa Lodge – Offers a beautiful mountain cabin just an hour’s drive east of Stanley Hot Springs.
- Best Western Lodge at River’s Edge – This is a great mid-range option located in Orofino, a little bit closer to the springs than Lewiston
- RiverTree Inn & Suites – If you prefer to stay in Lewiston itself, ReiverTree Inn is a good choice to enjoy the convenience of the city while being able to take a day trip to the hot springs.
2. Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs
The Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs is a short walk away from a small parking lot. It features three pools, and one of them has a creek crossing.
Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs is a popular spot for soaking after a day of skiing at Sun Valley. Also known as Warfield Hot Spring, this area is located on Warm Creek and is about 10 miles from Ketchum’s main road.
The gravel road that leads to the springs is made up of snow collected during the winter so pay attention to the times you travel to the area.
How to get there
From Ketchum, Idaho, drive 30 mins west on Warm Springs Road until you reach the marked parking lot. From here it is just a short walk along a clear path to the springs.
Where to stay near Frenchman’s Bend
- Sun Valley Resort – A beautiful 4-star hotel located in the Sun Valley mountain resort with a spa and wellness center as well as a gourmet restaurant on site.
- Knob Hill Inn – Another great luxury option with an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, and beautiful rooms.
- Tamarack Lodge – This is a great mid-range choice for families in Ketchum. The clean and bright pet-friendly rooms are perfect for a group of people plus it has a indoor swimming pool and hot tub on site.
- Best Western Plus Kentwood Lodge – Rustic meets modern lodge which will really give you the mountain town feel. Enjoy the indoor swimming pool and great location.
3. Rocky Canyon Hot Springs
It’s a 90-minute drive from Idaho’s capital city of Boise to the Rocky Canyon Hot Springs. This area, located near the Garden Valley and Crouch communities in southwest Idaho, is known for its beautiful hot springs.
Hikers need to follow the Wildlife Canyon Scenic byway to reach the falls, and they can also drive north to get to the roadside hot springs.
Note that visitors must cross the river to reach the pools, which is very dangerous during the spring because of the high snow melt.
How to get there
Drive north from Boise on the ID-55N until Banks Lowman Hwy. Follow this road until you reach Middleford Rd which will be on your left. Drive through Crouch and continue on until you reach the parking for Rocky Canyon Hot Springs.
You can visit the roadside springs or hike via the Wildlife Canyon Scenic byway to the hot springs by the waterfalls.
Where to stay near Rocky Canyon
- Hardscrabble and Rattlesnake Campgrounds – Located on either side of the hot springs, these two campgrounds are the closest places you can stay.
- Garden Valley Cabin – Crouch and Garden Valley have a handful of cabin rentals like this beautiful rustic meets modern home which you can rent.
- The Grove Hotel – If you’re looking for a little more luxury, the Grove Hotel in Boise is the top choice with a huge indoor swimming pool sauna, elegant rooms, and many additional services.
- Hampton Inn & Suites – Located in Boise, this is a great balance of comfort and price if you are looking to save a little money without giving up the comforts and convenience of a nice hotel.
4. Goldbug Hot Springs
One of the most popular hot springs in the state is Goldbug Hot Springs, located between Challis and Salmon in central Idaho. This area is mostly enjoyed by hikers who take a two-mile hike to get to the springs.
The Goldbug Hot Springs is located in a notch in the mountain. The trail leading to the springs begins at a high elevation and features numerous stairs but the warm pools at the top offer visitors some relief from the climb.
How to get there
Follow US-93 either south from Salmon or north from Challis until you reach Warm Springs Road. Park and take the 2-mile hike to the springs.
Where to stay near Goldbug Hot Springs
- Twin Peaks Guest Ranch – Located just north of the hot springs, Twin Peaks Ranch is the closest accommodation you will find. Located in a beautiful mountain setting, this is a spot not to miss!
- Red Rock Lodge – South of Goldbug in Challis you will find this affordable lodge with all the basic facilities you need within an easy drive from the hot springs
- River’s Fork Lodge – This lodge is located just a little further north of downtown Salmon and offers river views and comfortable rooms for an affordable price.
5. Kirkham Hot Springs
The South Payette River’s burbling landscape can be seen from Highway 21’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway.
Kirkham is a popular location for soaking in the hot springs, and the numerous pools and the easy accessibility of the area make it an ideal summer destination.
Kirkham’s extensive and varied pools make it ideal for soaking in hot springs. The area’s campsites also have hidden pools behind them, which can accommodate additional visitors if the main pools are full.
How to get there
Drive North out of Boise on ID-55 N until you reach the town of Banks. Turn right onto County Hwy 17 / Banks Lowmany Rd. Turn left when you reach the T junction and park up after 4 miles.
Where to stay near Kirkham Hot Springs
- Lowman Outdoor Retreat – Located within walking distance of the springs, you can’t stay any closer than here! This 1 bedroom holiday home has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
- Boise National Forest Campgrounds – There are a number of campgrounds within Boise National Forest that are pretty close to the hot springs if you wish to camp.
- Southfork Lodge – Located in Lowman, this lodge has a beautiful setting right on the river and a fun rustic vibe your family will love.
- The Grove Hotel – If you’re looking for a little more luxury, the Grove Hotel in Boise is the top choice with a huge indoor swimming pool sauna, elegant rooms, and many additional services.
6. Last Chance Hot Springs
This particular hot spring provides a tub that can accommodate five people. However, you can also pack a few more people into it. The tub is made with a few large boulders, and the water flows in a waterfall-like style through a tube.
The Last Chance Hot Springs are the closest natural springs to McCall and an ideal way to end a day of adventure in the region.
The smaller pool is on the campground’s turnoff, off Highway 55, near New Meadows and McCall. Park on the right side of the road and follow a well-marked trail for approximately five minutes.
How to get there
Drive 20 mins north of Mccall, Idaho on ID-55 until you reach Goos Creek Park Rd. Continue for 2.2 miles until Forest Rd 50462 where you will find Last Chance Campground.
Where to stay near Last Chance Hot Springs
- Last Chance Campground – If you’re happy to go camping, this campground is located a mere minutes on foot from the Last Chance Hot Springs.
- Best Western Plus – This hotel has super spacious, clean rooms and a great location in McCall featuring all the comforts you need after exploring the surrounding mountains.
- Scandia Inn – A beautiful modern motel with stylish rustic decor that will give you the mountain feel without sacrificing comfort.
- Brundage Bungalows – These cute and colorful bungalows are located in a beautiful forest and provide a cozy tiny home with all the amenities you need.
7. Pine Flats Hot Springs
At Pine Flats Hot Springs, you can bathe in a geothermal pool near a waterfall in the Payette River. These pools are set on a cliffside and vary in size, temperature, and shape. The pools will become progressively cooler as you walk toward the river.
One of the most beautiful pools in the area is next to the river, and it’s crystal clear and has a light blue color, which complements the nearby Payette River’s green waters.
These springs are within a campground and open during the summer season and check them out during the off-season if you want to beat the crowds.
How to get there
From Lowman, drive 10 mins east on Country Hwy 17 until you reach Pine Flats Campground. Enter the campground and drive to the top where there is a parking place for the springs.
Where to stay near Pine Flats Hot Springs
- Pine Flats Camping – The springs are located within this campground so you literally can’t stay any closer than this!
- Southfork Lodge – Located in Lowman, this lodge has a beautiful setting right on the river and a fun rustic vibe your family will love.
- Garden Valley Cabin – Crouch and Garden Valley also have a handful of cabin rentals like this beautiful rustic meets modern home which you can rent.
- The Grove Hotel – A little further away in Boise you can find a number of larger hotels including the luxurious Grove Hotel with a huge indoor swimming pool sauna, elegant rooms, and many additional services.
8. Bonneville Hot Springs
A unique soak awaits at the Hot Springs of Bonneville, situated near Lowman. It features a massive natural pool and a small shack with a bath inside.
These are located near Kirkham Hot Springs and are a little off the beaten path. The pools are set along a river about a 10-minute walk from the campground.
The best time to visit the Hot Springs is during the off-season, from May to September. It’s also the best time to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this natural area.
How to get there
Continue on a further 20 mins past Kirkman hot springs from Lowman until you reach Warm Springs Road on your left. Turn off at Forest Road 025UB and park at the end of the road.
Where to stay near Bonneville Hot Springs
- Bonneville Campground – Just a 10 min walk from the springs, this is the closes place you can stay if you want to visit Bonneville multiple times.
- Southfork Lodge – Located in Lowman, this lodge has a beautiful setting right on the river and a fun rustic vibe with garden games onsite.
- Stanley High Country Inn – East of Bonneville you can stay at this beautiful country B7B which has a country atmosphere, a hot tub, and a beautiful setting.
- Garden Valley Cabin – Crouch and Garden Valley also have a handful of cabin rentals like this beautiful rustic meets modern home which you can rent.
9. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a place that offers both a short hike and a hot spring, then the Jerry Johnson Hot Springs would be your ideal choice.
This natural hot spring is in the Clearwater National Forest in central Idaho, and a Forest Service sign indicates that you’re at the parking area.
The waterfall-fed pool at the Jerry Johnson Hot Springs gets submerged in the rising water of the river in the springtime, which means that this natural pool should only be visited during summer- winter. Also, this area is only for day use, so avoid camping there.
Other than that, a beautiful walk along Warm Springs Creek will lead you to several small pools filled with hot water. One of these natural pools’ most striking features is a waterfall.
How to get there
From Missoula, Idaho, drive south on US 93 to Lolo, then turn right onto US-12 W for 55 miles until you reach the sign for the springs.
Where to stay near Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
- Jerry Johnson Campground – As with many of the springs on this list, there is a campground very close by if you want to be as close as possible.
- Lochsa Lodge – A little further away in Lolo you will find this beautiful mountain lodge with a friendly atmosphere and even better views.
- The Lodge at Lolo Hot Springs – If you want to stay in a beautiful little hotel with access to its own hot springs while also being able to take a day trip to Jerry Johnson, this is your best option.
- C’mon INN Missoula – And located just a little bit further in Missoula you can indulge in a little more luxury at this Inn with an indoor swimming pool and 5 hot tubs!
10. The Springs Hot Springs Resort
You won’t find natural hot springs at The Springs. Instead, you’ll be able to enjoy a manufactured alternative. This resort offers various services, such as private pools and accommodation onsite.
One of the best places to visit when it comes to hot springs in Boise is The Springs Hot Spa Resort, which is in the city’s National Forest.
This facility is around 1 hour from Boise in Idaho City. It’s the perfect option for anyone who wants to enjoy the hot springs but is not able to handle any of the hikes.
How to get there
The Springs Resort is located in Idaho City, just a 50 min drive north on ID – 21 until you reach Warm Springs Resort.
Where to stay near The Springs Hot Springs
- Inn the Pines – Staying onsite at the Inn will get you discounted entry to the hot springs and the closest location possible!
- The Grove Hotel – Outside of Idaho City you will have to head to Boise for more options. This is the top choice with a huge indoor swimming pool sauna, elegant rooms, and many additional services.
- Hyatt Place – This beautifully modern hotel in Boise is another perfect option for anyone looking for the ultimate comforts of a high-class hotel.
- Hampton Inn & Suites – If you’re looking for a great balance of comfort and price you can save a little money without giving up the comforts and convenience of a nice hotel here.
11. Mountain Village Resort Hot Spring
The Mountain Village Resort has a unique hot spring inside a log cabin in Stanley, Idaho. This natural area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
The cabin doors, which are in front of the hot springs, let you enjoy a fantastic view of the Sawtooth mountains. The resort allows guests to use the hot spring at any time, and they can also pay by the hour.
This is also yet another wonderful option for anyone who needs accessibility.
How to get there
This resort is located right in the city of Stanley, Idaho. If driving from Boise you will need to follow ID-55 N until your reach ID-21 which will take you directly to your destination.
Where to stay near Mountain Village Hot Springs
You must be a guest staying at the Mountain Village Resort to utilize their hot spring so if you are coming here specifically for that, then this is your only option.
12. Miracle Hot Springs
The Miracle Hot Springs is located along Salmon Falls Creek, and it features several hot pools and a variety of accommodations. The resort is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers various accommodations.
Outdoor heated pools or a private hot spring bath are available at this resort. Guests can spend their day relaxing in one of the four heated pools or dip in the private VIP tub rooms.
How to get there
From Twin Falls, Idaho, drive 40 mins west on US-30 until you reach the town of Buhl where you will see Miracle Hot Springs
Where to stay near Miracle Hot Springs
- Miracle Hot Springs Accommodation – At the springs there are a number of different options from Cabins to Glamping and camping.
- Oregon Trail Inn – Simple and clean accommodation just a 15 min drive from the springs
- Hagerman Valley Inn – Another great simple option close to the springs but n the northern side of the town.
- Billingsley Creek – A bit further away in Hagerman, Billingsley Creek is an adorable rustic lodge in an amazing lakeside setting with many fun outdoor activities on offer.
13. Mountain Hot Springs
The Council Mountain Hot Springs are located in the Payette National Forest. There’s a 2-mile round-trip hike to reach this location, and the water is extremely hot. Those who love hot springs will surely enjoy the experience.
What’s more is that these hot springs are open all year round, and they are even situated next to a camping site! That way, you can enjoy your family camping trip, and trip to the hot springs all in one.
How to get there
From Council, drive south on Us-95 for 4.5 miles before turning left onto Middle Fork Rd. Follow this for 7 miles and park up. You should find a short walking trail that takes you to the river where the hot springs are located.
Where to stay near Mountain Hot Springs
- Best Western Plus – This hotel has super spacious, clean rooms and a great location in McCall featuring all the comforts you need after exploring the surrounding mountains.
- Scandia Inn – A beautiful modern motel with stylish rustic decor that will give you the mountain feel without sacrificing comfort.
- Brundage Bungalows – These cute and colorful bungalows are located in a beautiful forest and provide a cozy tiny home with all the amenities you need.
14. Burgdorf Hot Springs
The Hot Springs of Burgdorf is a remote mountain resort located in Idaho. It offers a peaceful winter retreat, ideal for those looking for somewhere to escape in the cold. Access to the resort can only be made via snowmobile during the winter season.
The resort features three heated pools that are ideal for guests wanting to get hot. One of these is a walled-off pool that’s ideal for children.
Located in a historical location in Idaho, this area is a must-visit during winter.
How to get there
Driving from McCall, head north on Warren Wagon Rd for 28 miles then turn left onto Burgdorf Rd.
Where to stay near Burgdorf Hot Springs
Since this is a remote private resort, you must stay at Burgdorf Hot Springs Resort if you wish to use the facilities.
15. Zims Hot Springs
The mineral water of the hot springs at Zims Hot Springs comes from an artesian source, and its cooling effect is generated by the runoff from Salmon Creek.
There are several mineral pools in addition to the outdoor hot pools at Zims Hot Spring. The mineral pools have an average temperature of around 100-105 degrees Fahrenheit. The outdoor hot pools are open year-round. A season pass is required to access the facility’s other attractions.
How to get there
From McCall, drive northwest on ID-55 Lake St for 10 miles. Turn off at Us-95 N and continue until you reach Hot Springs rd on your left.
Where to stay near Zims Hot Springs
- Zims Hot Springs Accommodation – At the springs they offer RV and camping spots for anyone wanting to stay close by.
- Best Western Plus – This hotel has super spacious, clean rooms and a great location in McCall featuring all the comforts you need after exploring the surrounding mountains.
- Scandia Inn – A beautiful modern motel with stylish rustic decor that will give you the mountain feel without sacrificing comfort.
- Brundage Bungalows – These cute and colorful bungalows are located in a beautiful forest and provide a cozy tiny home with all the amenities you need.
Boat Box Hot Springs
Located near Stanley, Idaho, the Boat Box Hot Springs is an easy-to-spot natural hot spring. It’s set along the Salmon River, and the round metal tub shaped like a witch’s cauldron is an ideal Instagram-worthy bath. You can let your friends join you for the experience, or you can take a solo bath.
Boat Box Hot Springs can reach a temperature of over 110 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent the temperature from getting too hot, the locals have placed a white bucket beside the tub.
They also siphon the hot water from the area’s hillside into the tub, which can be turned off if it gets too hot. Quite often, however, visitors don’t take care of the place properly and the tub might be completely frozen.
16. Bear Lake Hot Springs
The Bear Lake Hot Springs is a great summer resort located in the beautiful Bear Lake region. It features several campsites and two mineral pools with amazing views of the lake.
If you’re not in the mood for a swim, but you still want to explore the area’s waters in a new way, the resort can provide you with a canoe or a kayaking trip.
Bear Lake Hot Springs is also a historical site, as the first building in the area was constructed in 1911.
How to get there
Bear Lake Hot Springs is located right on the northern part of the lake just east of the Idaho State Park North Beach.
Where to stay near Bear Lake Hot Springs
- Bear Country Cabins – Offering a range of rustic cabins very close to the lake, this is a fun option for families or small groups.
- Super 8 – With an indoor swimming pool, gym, and comfortable rooms, this motel in Montpelier has everything you need if you’re looking for hotel-style accommodation.
- Clover Creek Inn – A comfortable say in Montpelier just a 30 min drive north of Bear Lake
When Is The Best Time To Visit The Hot Springs In Idaho?
Although some hot springs can be found year-round, most are best during the winter, summer, and fall. During spring, which is typically around April, melting snow can prevent many springs from being accessible.
This is also when the area is most dangerous due to avalanches, floods, and severe amounts of snowmelt.