Updated January 2026
Quick Answer: Idaho is pure paradise for hot spring lovers, with more natural pools than almost anywhere else in the United States! Keep reading for our list of natural and commercial pools to check out in 2026.
It’s truly the ultimate place to soak, unwind, and connect with nature. In this Idaho hot springs 2026 guide, we’re sharing every pool we’ve personally visited, from hidden backcountry gems to easy roadside favorites.
Over the years, we’ve experienced these natural hot springs in Idaho through every season: below-zero-degree winter mornings, wildflower-filled spring hikes, golden fall evenings, and everything in between.
Updated for 2026 after our most recent summer trip to a new pool, all details here are personally verified for accuracy. Use our Idaho hot springs map and insider tips to plan your next adventure and find the best Idaho hot springs to visit this year!
Planning a bigger Idaho road trip? Read these posts for more travel tips and inspiration!
- Map of Idaho Hot Springs
- How to Plan Your Hot Springs Trip in Idaho (2026 Edition)
- The Best NATURAL Hot springs in Idaho
- Best COMMERCIAL Idaho Hot Springs
- 19. Banbury Hot Springs Resort
- 20. Miracle Hot Springs
- Idaho Hot Springs Etiquette
- Facts About Idaho Hot Springs
- Idaho Hot Springs (Stewardship and Responsibility)
- Read More Idaho Posts
Map of Idaho Hot Springs
Planning your next soak? We created this Idaho hot springs map by hand to make it easier to explore every corner of the state, from well-known resort pools to hidden natural gems tucked deep in the mountains.
Each location on this interactive map links directly to its detailed guide below, so you can plan the perfect road trip or weekend getaway.
Travel Tip: Pin or download this map before you head out! Many of Idaho’s most beautiful natural hot springs are far from cell service, and having it saved offline ensures you can still find your way to the water.
How to Plan Your Hot Springs Trip in Idaho (2026 Edition)
Before you hit the road, a little planning goes a long way. Keep reading and we will help you choose the best time to visit Idaho hot springs, what to pack, and how to prepare for changing weather and remote terrain.
When to Visit Idaho Hot Springs
Each season brings its own magic (and challenges). Here’s what we’ve learned from soaking year-round, and our take on the best times to visit Idaho hot springs.
Idaho Hot Springs in Winter: Quiet, Photogenic, and Perfectly Steamy
Winter is our favorite season to visit Idaho hot springs. Access can be tricky though, so be sure to do a little research to make sure you can actually get to your chosen pool in winter.
Pack traction cleats, bring a shovel (to dig out your car), and make sure you have a 4WD vehicle. Some roads close seasonally, so always check conditions before heading out.
Personal Note: We last soaked in Boat Box Hot Springs in the first week of March when the air was 0°F. The steam clouds were unreal, our towels froze almost instantly, and we had it all to ourselves!
Spring: Natural Pools Not Recommended
Spring runoff can make trails muddy and water levels unpredictable. This can be especially dangerous for pools alongside a river – sometimes they are submerged altogether!
It’s a stunning time to visit for lush scenery and new blooms, but choose higher-elevation soaks (like Goldbug or Pine Flats) or commercial pools to avoid flooding.
Summer: Easiest Access, Biggest Crowds
By summer, nearly all natural hot springs in Idaho are accessible, making it ideal for road trips and camping adventures.
However, expect busier pools and plan early mornings or weekdays for more peace and quiet. Don’t let the crowds deter you though – we’ve met some of the nicest folks sharing a pool together.
Summer vs winter hot springs in Idaho? Which is better? If you are okay with a little risk and comfortable driving in snow, choose winter. If you want full access and are okay with sharing pools, go in summer.
Fall: Crisp Air and Golden Hillsides
This is arguably the most balanced season for hot spring soaking. Idaho has mild weather, fewer people, and vibrant autumn colors. Fall is ideal for photographers and those looking for solitude without snow travel.
What to Pack for a Hot Springs Road Trip
Idaho’s terrain and weather can change fast, especially around remote pools. A well-prepared bag keeps your soak relaxing and safe.
Here’s what we always bring on every Idaho hot springs trip:
- Quick-dry towel or microfiber travel towel
- Swimsuit and backup change of clothes
- Flip-flops or water shoes for rocky entries
- Trash bag (leave no trace!)
- Headlamp or lantern for low-light visits
- Waterproof bag for storing wet gear after your soak
- Plenty of water + high-protein snacks
- Emergency kit and paper map (yes, cell service drops often)
For our full checklist, grab the Idaho Hot Springs Packing List here.
The Best NATURAL Hot springs in Idaho
First, we will start this list with natural Idaho hot springs. While most are free (no entry admission), there are cases where you’ll have to pay to park on recreational land, depending on the area. We will list those details below.
1. Kirkham Hot Springs
Kirkham Hot Springs Quick Facts:
- Location: Lowman, ID
- GPS: 44.0724226,-115.5478179
- Entrance Fee: $5.00 Day Use
- Hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Parking: Day Use Parking Lot
- Water Temperature: Varies
- Capacity: 20+ people
- # of Pools: 10+
- Hike-In? No
- Bathroom On-Site: Yes
- Overnight Camping? No
Of all the Idaho hot springs, Kirkham Hot Springs one is arguably the most well-known in the state.
It’s an insanely beautiful, multi-tiered hot springs along the side of the Payette River.
Despite the number of cars we saw in the parking lot, (there were at least 10 other people there) we were able to find our own pool and have our own quiet experience!
The cascading waterfalls, crystal clear pools next to the river, and steaming hillside were some of the many beautiful features you can expect here.
Note: Kirkham Campground is permanently closed and it’s day-use only!
2. Boat Box Hot Springs
Boat Box Hot Spring Quick Facts:
- Location: North of Stanley, ID
- GPS: 44.2447533,-114.8866208
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Parking: Pullout from Highway 75
- Water Temperature: HOT
- Capacity: 1-2 People
- # of Pools: 1
- Hike-In? No
- Bathroom On-Site: No
- Overnight Camping? No.
Boat Box Hot Springs is a little tub located on the side of the river in Stanley, Idaho. Water is channeled from a pipe and feeds searing hot water straight into the basin for a perfect soak.
The tub can fit 3 soakers, but any more than that and you are in for a tight squeeze.
This place is perfect for visiting on a cold day because the steam will rise beautifully off the river, and the sound of the flowing river will give it an extra-relaxing feel.
Community Care More: This location is run and maintained by locals and is extremely small. Take care when visiting!
3. Trail Creek Hot Springs
Trail Creek Hot Spring Facts:
- Location: East of Cascade, Idaho
- GPS: 44.6278908,-115.7540698
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Parking: Pullout from Warm Lake Road
- Water Temperature: Varies
- Capacity: 10+
- # of Pools: 3
- Hike-In? Very short trail
- Nudity? Yes
- Bathroom On-Site: No
Many Idaho hot springs in a backcountry setting require a long hike or backpacking trip to reach (kudos to you soakers who are that dedicated!)
To our delight, we discovered that Trail Creek Hot Springs had the impression of being deep in the forest, AND had the convenience of a short walk. It’s the best of both worlds!
Situated next to Trail Creek, visitors have created a spigot and plug to channel cold river water into the basin to regulate the water to any temperature you desire. Similar to the Boiling River in Yellowstone, you can go between the hot spring water and the chilly river water for your own version of a polar bear plunge!
The water was refreshingly clean and clear, and we spent several hours here enjoying each other’s company and meeting others as well.
Read More: 5 Pacific Northwest Hot Springs You Must Visit
4. Goldbug Hot Springs
Goldbug Hot Spring Quick Facts:
- Location: Elk Bend, Idaho
- GPS: 44.9051877,-113.9318337
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Parking: Trailhead Parking Lot
- Water Temperature: 105-110
- Capacity: 20+
- # of Pools: 5
- Hike-In? Yes
- Nudity? Yes
- Bathroom On-Site: Trailhead
- Overnight Camping? Yes, free.
If you’re willing to go the extra mile (or a few more) for epic views, Goldbug Hot Springs are the pools for you! Located near Salmon, Idaho, Goldbug is a pretty long detour from major towns (about a 2-3-hour drive from either Stanely, ID or Missoula, MT) but the experience makes it all worthwhile!
These Idaho hot springs sit atop mountains around the Salmon-Challis National Forest, but actually sits on BLM land. Camping sites are FREE and available along the 2-mile route, but make sure to stay at least 500 feet from the pools!
These hot springs are unique for their multi-levels, waterfalls, and several prime soaking spots with unobstructed views of the valley below.
If you’re coming in the summer, bring sun protection like a hat, because there is little shade! If visiting in the winter, bring and wear microspikes, because the path to the pools can be steep and slippery.
Read More: Make The Trek To Goldbug Hot Springs Near Salmon, Idaho
5. Rocky Canyon Hot Springs
Rocky Canyon Hot Spring Quick Facts:
- Location: Garden Valley, ID
- GPS: 44.2291043,-115.9240726
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Parking: Pullout on Middelfork Rd.
- Water Temperature: Varies
- Capacity: ~10 People
- # of Pools: 5
- Hike-In? No, but a river crossing
- Operating Hours: All day
- Bathroom On-Site: No
Rocky Canyon Hot Springs is a series of natural pools on a hillside near Garden Valley, Idaho. Getting here (to the parking area) is fairly easy, but quite a long detour that is not close to any other hot springs.
From Garden Valley, drive north from the small town about 15 miles on a dirt road and look for this unmarked pullout to park your car.
Danger Warning: You’ll need to attempt a river crossing at the Middle Fork Payette, which is why we only recommend visiting Rocky Canyon hot spring between June – September. Any other time of year, the water may be too high or cold for a safe crossing!
Once across the Middle Fork Payette River, you can enjoy the series of cascading pools, which get warmer and warmer as you climb up the hillside! We noticed that these pools were not crowded, probably because of the long drive and crossing effort to get there!
6. Sunbeam Hot Springs
Sunbeam Hot Spring Quick Facts:
- Location: North of Stanley, Idaho
- GPS: 44.2679821,-114.7569085
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Parking: Pullout from Highway 75
- Water Temperature: Varies
- Capacity: 15+
- # of Pools: 5
- Hike-In? No
- Nudity? No
- Bathroom On-Site: Yes
- Overnight Camping? No.
Sunbeam Hot Springs is located near Stanley, Idaho right off of Highway 75. Here, you can find a series of small pools along Salmon River, and a square tub nestled along the river’s edge.
This used to be sort of a homestead and bathhouse, with historic buildings and interpretive signs around the property. You can pop into the bathhouse, but there isn’t anything to do inside. To access this free hot springs in Idaho, walk on either side of the building to access the river.
One side includes the pools right along the river, that are fed through a pipe from the hillside. These can be temperamental in temperature, so plan to spend some time finding the right pool that fits what you want. Alternatively, you could walk to the other side and find the plastic blue box! It stays relatively the same temperature.
Seasonal Tip: Most of these pools are underwater and cold during the spring runoff season (April-Early June). Come in the late summer and fall for best access!
7. Bonneville Hot Springs
Bonneville Hot Spring Quick Facts:
- Location: Lowman, Idaho
- GPS: 44.1568622,-115.3230414
- Entrance Fee: $5.00 Day Use Fee
- Parking: Bonneville Campground
- Water Temperature: Extremely HOT
- Capacity: 20+
- # of Pools: Several
- Hike-In? Yes
- Nudity? No
- Bathroom On-Site: Parking Lot
- Overnight Camping? Yes, fee.
Bonneville is a lesser-known hot spring in Idaho, about a 2.5-hour drive from Boise, Idaho. Connected to a nearby campground, this is a really fun spot for groups, because you can reserve a campsite nearby and then take the short walk to the springs during the day.
The pools’ source come from the hillside, and then runs off into Warm Springs Creek below. Be warned though – these springs are SUPER. DUPER. HOT. The pools that are safe for soaking are near the creek.
This Idaho hot spring would be a great option for late fall or early spring. We would even consider visiting here during the winter season because the water might cool down a bit for you to enjoy more pools!
Seasonal Tip: If coming in winter, AWD/4WD is recommended. The dirt roads in and out aren’t well maintained.
8. Cove Creek Hot Springs
Cove Creek Hot Spring Quick Facts:
- Location: East of Stanley, Idaho
- GPS: 44.263562,-114.812984
- Entrance Fee: None
- Parking: Parking lot on-site
- Water Temperature: 96-115°
- Capacity: ~5-7
- # of Pools: 2-3
- Hike-In? No
- Nudity? Not encouraged
- Operating Hours: Day use only
- Bathroom On-Site: Yes
Cove Creek Hot Springs is one single pool, located on the edge of the Salmon River. It has a designated parking lot with a pit toilet bathroom and a signboard with information about camping and fishing. This hot spring has very easy access from the highway, and it’s just a 10-minute drive from Stanley, ID.
The single pool has a silty bottom that makes the water murky if you moved around too much. We also came in June when the water levels were pretty high, so the cold river water was mixing into the pools quite a bit.
Personal Opinion: We think this hot spring is best around the autumn and winter holidays – basically anytime where the water levels aren’t super high. We noticed that the pool was more lukewarm than we would have liked, so we suggest visiting when water levels are lower, between September and December (weather permitting.
9. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
Jerry Johnson Hot Spring Quick Facts:
- Location: Clearwater National Forest
- GPS: 46.4627053,-114.8816043
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Parking: Pullout on Highway 12
- Water Temperature: 105-115 degrees
- Capacity: 20+
- # of Pools: 3 main sections
- Hike-In? Yes
- Nudity? Yes
- Operating Hours: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Bathroom On-Site: Parking Lot
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is located next to Lolo Pass, which is in the Northeast corner of the state, on the southern end of the Panhandle. It’s actually much easier to get to Jerry Johnson from Missoula, Montana than from anywhere else in Idaho!
These Idaho hot springs require a 2.6-mile walk on a flat, easy trail. We visited in the winter, when the snowpack can made the trail icy. Wear micro-spikes to help avoid slipping and falling.
There are three sections of pools: the cliffside collection, the riverside collection, and the “big pool.” Each come with their own unique traits, depths, and temperatures, and we suggest testing them out to find which one you like best.
10. Pine Flats Hot Springs
Pine Flats Hot Spring Facts:
- Location: West of Lowman, Idaho
- GPS: 44.0624112,-115.6949968
- Entrance Fee: $5.00 Day Use Fee
- Parking: Pine Flats Campground
- Water Temperature: 100-110
- Capacity: 20+
- # of Pools: 5ish
- Hike-In? Yes
- Nudity? Not encouraged
- Operating Hours: All day
- Bathroom: In the campground
- Overnight Camping? Yes, fee.
Pine Flats Hot Springs is located right off the Banks-Lowman Highway, nearby two other iconic Idaho hot springs; Kirkham and Rocky Canyon.
The pools at Pine Flats are situated on the side of the cliff, with the highway up above, and the Payette River below. There are several pools to choose from, varying degrees and sizes. We noticed that the hotter pools were sourced from above, and the cooler pools were closer to the river’s edge.
One of the most iconic pools is located on the western edge of the grouping – a larger pair of pools with an Idaho hot spring waterfall sourcing the pool. It’s quite a magical sight! To get here, you need to cross through the river, so it may be difficult to access in the early season when the river levels are high.
Soakers Tip: You’ll be climbing over lots of slippery rocks here. Where good water shoes with lots of grip!
11. Frenchman’s Bend Hot Spring
- Location: West of Sun Valley, ID
- GPS: 43.6411461,-114.4929296
- Entrance Fee: None
- Parking: Small lot on-site
- Water Temperature: 100-126°
- Capacity: ~10-15
- # of Pools: 2
- Hike-In? Short walk
- Nudity? No
- Operating Hours: 4 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Bathroom on-site: No
Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs (also known historically as Warfield Hot Springs) is a beloved natural soak located about 11 miles from Ketchum in the Sawtooth National Forest.
Our first experience at this pool included a sunrise soak in the fall…and we were the only ones there! The creek was low, which made the springs feel extra hot.
Tucked alongside Warm Springs Creek, this easy-to-access spring features three rock-walled pools receiving geothermal water that emerges around 124 °F at the source and cools as it mingles with creek water, making it ideal for a range of soak temperatures.
Access is free year-round, though the last few miles are on a well-used dirt road and parking space is limited.
Seasonal Tip: In late spring, runoff can submerge the pools and make access tricky; fall and summer offer more reliable conditions. Winter is fun too, just prepare to drive with a 4WD vehicle.
12. Skillern Hot Springs
Skillern Hot Springs is a remote Idaho hot spring tucked deep in the Sawtooth National Forest north of Fairfield, Idaho. Reaching it requires a ~6-mile round-trip hike along Big Smoky Creek through sagebrush meadows and pine forests, with optional river crossings depending on your trail choice.
The spring itself is a rock-walled pool fed by a small waterfall that can comfortably fit several adults. The water temperatures tend to be lukewarm to warm depending on conditions and season. It’s a truly quiet, secluded soak with minimal crowds, which is ideal for adventurers who don’t mind a bit of effort for solitude.
We tackled the trail in late summer and were rewarded with a peaceful soak all to ourselves. It felt like our own little retreat.
Seasonal Tip: Road access is typically closed through winter and spring snow (though if you have a 4-wheeler you could likely get to the lot with ease!); summer and early fall offer the best window for hiking and soaking.
13. Worswick Hot Springs
- Location: Sawtooth National Forest
- Water Temperatures: Varies
- Number of Pools: 10+
- Popularity: 4/10, not well known, a little remote
- Nudity? Expected.
- Toilets on-site: Yes, pit toilets.
Worswick Hot Springs is a natural hillside soaking spot in the Sawtooth National Forest north of Fairfield, Idaho. This rustic location features multiple primitive rock and log-dammed pools with varying temperatures, generally ranging from warm-to-hot as you explore uphill (closest pools are often 90–105 °F, while upper ones can be hotter) so you can find a soak that suits you.
There’s no fee, and parking is at a small dirt turnout with pit toilets; the short walk from the lot makes this accessible yet still peaceful.
Coming late in the summer during sunrise, we watched steam rise over the hillside as the sun came up…each pool felt like a private nook tucked into the hillside!
Seasonal tip placeholder: Roads to Worswick are typically closed with snow in the winter; late summer through early fall brings the best access. There is also free dispersed camping in the area – this is perfect for boondockers!
Best COMMERCIAL Idaho Hot Springs
What are commercial hot springs in Idaho? We consider pools “commercial” if they require an entry fee, are maintained by a business, and/or have additional features included like accommodations or food on-site. These aren’t better or worse than natural hot springs, just a different experience!
14. Hot Springs at Mountain Village Resort
Owned by the Mountain Village Resort in Stanley, Idaho, you can access this Idaho hot springs by staying at the resort or paying for use by the hour.
This one is unique because of the swinging barn doors that face directly towards the incredible Sawtooth Mountains.
Winter Tip: Stanley, Idaho can get REALLY cold in the winter, so prepare for sub-zero temperatures if you are planning to visit between November and March. We came in March and noticed that our hair would freeze as soon as it emerged from the water – you can see it here on our vlog!
15. Gold Fork Hot Springs
If a spa-style soak is more your preference, Gold Fork is an Idaho hot springs you must visit!
Gold Fork Hot Springs is located near McCall, Idaho. They have several pools of varying temperature ranging from boiling hot (commonly referred to as the lobster pot) to some manageable for all ages.
The water is naturally sourced while being channeled into beautifully constructed pools for a clean and comfortable experience.
Here, you have the convenience of changing rooms, towels to rent, snacks to buy, and even tables and lounge chairs. You are able to bring your own food, so pack a picnic and stay for the afternoon!
*This Idaho hot springs take cash only, so leave your cards at home! The current rate as of August 2025 is $15 per soakers ages 1 and up.
Read More: 5 Pacific Northwest Hot Springs You Must Visit
16. Burgdorf Hot Springs
This rustic hot spring experience is definitely one to add to your bucket list!
Burgdorf Hot Springs is a year-round destination, but only accessible by snowmobile 6 months out of the year – which makes it more appealing, in our opinion. You can rent a snowmobile from Cheap Thrills in McCall, Idaho. Plan for a 30-mile ride to the hot springs!
This place is open for day-use guests as well as one who would like to stay in their rustic-style cabins.
Day-Use Prices for Burgdorf as of the 2025/2026 season:
- Adults (16+): $20/person
- Children (under 16): $15/person
- Seniors (65+): $15/person
Burgdorf has recently updated their stay experience for 2026, therefore accommodations in their rustic and historic cabins are more streamlined and clear! Cabins start at $150/night with a 2 night minimum, and include firewood, beds, and basic furniture. Guests are responsible for bringing their own bedding.
Burgdorf’s cabins are a full-on camp-style stay, which means you bring your own food, sleeping gear, and lighting. Their rustic cabins have no running water and no plumbing!
The best time (in our opinion) to visit is when you can make a weekend out of it. Better yet, make it your winter road trip destination during those colder months of the year for fewer crowds!
Bring your friends, plenty of food and water, and bring sleeping gear to keep you warm for the winter chill (they only provide simple mattresses).
Read More: Our Complete Guide To Soaking at Burgdorf Hot Springs
17. The Springs Mountain Resort – Idaho City
The Springs in Idaho City is a luxury Idaho hot spring location just an hour north of Boise, Idaho.
It includes a large communal soaking area (where you can order food and drinks poolside!!), a large hot tub, toasty sauna, and several private pools.
As of 2026, The admission is $30 per adult and $27 for children, and reservations are required to keep the capacity at an enjoyable level for all guests.
Call ahead to reserve a date, and prepare for an entire day of rest and relaxation.
Private pools require an additional reservation and can be enjoyed by the hour. We highly recommend this, as the ambiance and scenery here provide an elevated hot springs experience!
Read More: A Magical Escape To The Springs In Idaho City
18. Heise Hot Springs
Heise Hot Springs is located just 20 minutes outside of Idaho Falls. They have hot pools which are open year-round, and summer pools which are slightly cooler, and make for a perfect refreshing dip in the summer.
Berty and I can here in the summer on 2025, and it was an excellent place to bring a toddler. There is food on-site, camping and accommodations next door, clean bathrooms for changing, and tons of space to lay out and enjoy your time in the sun.
For the 2026 season, swimming pool admission is $10 for 11 years and under, and 12 years and up is $18. This includes access to both the hot pools and summer pools. Slides, ziplines, and food are all additional costs.
19. Banbury Hot Springs Resort
- Location: Buhl, Idaho
- GPS: 42.689782,-114.8293296
- Parking: On-site
- Water Temperature: 89-102°
- Capacity: 20+
- # of Pools: 1 large, several private
- Nudity? No
- Operating Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Bathroom On-Site: Yes
Banbury Hot Springs is a geothermal hot springs resort located in the Hagerman Valley of southern Idaho. The springs have been used for centuries by Native Americans (Shoshone and Bannock tribes), and were first developed for commercial use in the early 1900s. Located on the Snake River, this site offers amenities like a big community pool, private tubs, and opportunities for river excursions.
The pool’s source water starts at 138 degrees and is cooled to 89-102 degrees, depending on the pool you choose. The water is rich in minerals like magnesium, silica, and calcium, which may have some health benefits.
Banbury Hot Springs is a perfect family-friendly resort for enjoying the natural beauty of Southern Idaho. It’s the perfect mix of relaxing and restorative, while the surrounding area is full of more adventurous things to see and do in Twin Falls.
Entrance Fee: $12.72 for adult ticks, and $8.48 for children. These fees cover a 2-hour window and visitors must bring their own towel.
20. Miracle Hot Springs
Miracle Hot Springs is one of many natural thermal springs in the Southern Idaho region. It’s a lovely destination for weary travelers to recharge after a long day on the road.
What makes this Idaho hot spring stand out from others is the variety of accommodations it has for visitors. Reserve a tent or RV site to camp, or book a stay in their glamping geodesic domes.
Also on the property is a fire pit, picnic tables, lounge chairs, and a grassy lawn to enjoy. You can book a massage on-site, and there are lots of modern facilities to help you stay comfortable and clean.
The pools are fed by natural mineral water, at an alkaline pH of 9.6. The water is sourced at 138 degrees but cooled to a comfortable soaking temperature by cold spring water from the Snake River Aquifer.
Details: Opening Hours (2026): M-Th, 8am-10pm, Friday-Saturday 8am-11pm, Closed Sundays. Adult General Admission starts at $14, Children $12. See full price list here for the most udpated pricing.
Idaho Hot Springs Etiquette
In all of our hot springs posts, we like to share common courtesies and mutual responsibilities for all soakers who wish to partake.
Please keep these hot springs etiquette tips in mind as your help will allow these places to be enjoyed for years to come!
1. Keep Them Clean.
Natural springs and connecting waterways cannot support soap/shampoo (even the biodegradable kind). Don’t treat it as your bathtub! Nothing should be added to the water except yourselves.
2. Pack It In And Pack It Out.
We’ve encountered PNW hot springs where beer cans were littered everywhere and the water was filthy.
Keep it clean for yourself and for other visitors by packing out all your trash. You can even bring an extra trash bag to help out others who have left their waste behind. Read our full hot springs packing list for sustainable and useful items for a great soak.
3. Leave It Better Than You Found It.
Some places have been cut off from access because of public misuse. Help it continue to be enjoyed for years to come by being respectful of any boundaries, structures or waterways in place.
4. Clothing May Be Optional.
Depending on the location, you may encounter soakers in the nude. You will more than likely see this if you are heading to hard-to-reach hot springs. Learn to be okay with it!
5. Be Respectful Of Other Visitors.
Everyone comes for their own reasons. Be respectful of people who wish for a silent soak.
6. Be Aware of Hot Spring Capacity
Some locations can only fit so many people (some as little as one soaker!) Doing a little research beforehand about the size, capacity, and popular times can help you determine the best dates for your visit.
Facts About Idaho Hot Springs
- There are more than 130 soakable hot springs in Idaho. Even more that are too hot for humans to enjoy!
- The geothermal activity is thanks to the Idaho Batholith! This is an area where geological activity pushes molten rock closer to the earth’s surface.
- Minerals found in hot springs can include boron, calcium, sodium, sulfate, lithium, potassium, fluoride, chloride, magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, phosphate, silica, and nitrogen.
- There are many health benefits to soaking in hot springs.
- Read more facts about natural hot springs here, and fun facts about Idaho.
Idaho Hot Springs (Stewardship and Responsibility)
Before we finish, we’re going to share an excerpt from our Pacific Northwest Hot Springs post that we think is very important to address:
Talking about hot springs on the internet seems to be a controversial topic.
Lots of soakers don’t like locations being shared, naturally for fear of their favorite places being ruined by reckless visitors.
Berty and I believe that blog post or no blog post, these places will be discovered and visited by many people as social media and sharing is a part of today’s culture.
Our blog is dedicated to sharing beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, and with that comes a responsibility to educate readers and share expectations of how we can enjoy these places respectfully.
We’re here to be a voice and an example of how to properly treat locations so that people can enjoy them for generations.
If people are going to find out about them eventually, we would rather there be good information about proper practices and etiquette readily available.
Have you visited any of these Idaho hot springs? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!
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What To Expect At Kirkham Hot Springs In Idaho
16 Epic Thing To Do In Boise, Idaho
6 Things To Do In McCall, Idaho During Winter
Experience Idaho’s Wine Country (Snake River Valley)
Hidden Gem In The Oregon Desert: Alvord Hot Springs
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