Curious about what to expect at Mountain Village Hot Spring in Stanley, Idaho? We’ve got all the latest updated information for you here!
Have you been searching for Idaho hot springs and come across this incredible wooden structure in Stanley, Idaho?
You know the one – it has barn doors that swing wide open, with unobstructed views to the Sawtooth Mountains. It’s a hot tub tucked away by the river’s edge, just waiting to be enjoyed!
But how the heck do you find it, and how should you prepare for your iconic soak?
In this post, we’re telling you exactly how to plan a visit to Mountain Village Hot Springs, what to expect, and how to plan ahead for your soak!
How To Soak At Mountain Village Hot Springs in Stanley, Idaho
Where Is Mountain Village Hot Springs?
Mountain Village Resort is located in Stanley, Idaho.
This central Idaho hotel is one the most well-known resorts in town, with 61 rooms, 6 RV pull-through sites, and 10 tent camping spots.
It’s placed in the center of town, easily accessible to everything from food, gas, entertainment, and outdoor recreation!
The resort is located on the main street in town (Eva Falls Ave) at the junction of Highway 21 and Highway 75. It’s a really convenient spot!
Originally popular for its convenience, it’s now gained major popularity for its hot spring outpost structure on site.
This semi-indoor space has barn doors you can swing wide open to absolutely stunning views of the Sawtooth Mountains. People come from all over just to enjoy this hot spring!
Mountain Village Hot Springs History
In order to understand the history of the pool house, you need to first know the history of the Mountain Village Resort. Stanley sits on the native land of the Sioux, or Cherokee, and Iroquois indigenous tribes.
We know the land was used for fishing and fur trapping by both the indigenous communities and European settlers alike.
However, we know little about the spiritual use of hot springs, or if it had any cultural significance for the people inhabiting the area.
What we DO know, is that the Idaho Batholith brings the magma very close to the earth’s crust here, heating the waters of the surrounding mountains.
Read More: 11 Unique Facts About Natural Hot Springs
Looking for More Idaho Hot Springs?
Lucky for you…it’s kind of our specialty! Not only did we make an epic hot springs e-book connecting all these pools in a big adventure, but we have SO many free resources on this blog too!
Here are some pools you have to check out that are nearby Stanley, Idaho:
- Frenchman’s Bend Hot Spring – Sun Valley, ID
- Kirkham Hot Springs – Lowman, ID
- Bonneville Hot Springs – Bonneville Campground
- Rocky Canyon Hot Springs – Garden Valley
- Sunbeam Hot Springs – Stanley, ID
- Jerry Johnson Hot Springs – near Lolo, Montana
- Pine Flats Hot Springs – Lowman, ID
- Trail Creek Hot Springs – Cascade, ID
- Boat Box Hot Spring – Stanley, ID
- Goldbug Hot Spring – Salmon, ID
- Burgdorf Hot Springs – McCall, ID
- The Springs – Idaho City, ID
How To Reserve a Spot For Mountain Village Hot Spring
Unlike lots of other natural Idaho hot springs, Mountain Village Hot Springs is by reservation only. This is because it’s on private property, with no free public access.
Their requirements have changed frequently in recent years, so we recommend calling them to get the most updated information. However, this is what we know as of now:
- Hotel/Lodge Guests: Complimentary 1-hour time slot – must sign up with the staff at the front.
- Non-Hotel Guests: 1-hour time slot if available, with a soaking fee.
We recommend booking a time slot right away, when you check into your room. This way, you have the most options available to you!
It’s also important to note that unavailability does not constitute a rom refund. That being said, if you are coming for the soak, it’s VERY important that you ask about reservation availability at the time of booking!
What time of day should you reserve? Personally, we love the early morning time slots. That’s when the hot springs look their “steamiest” and the surrounding scenery is calm and quiet.
However, we can see how a sunset soak would be lovely too!
These time slots book out FAST, so if you see one open, I highly recommend writing your name down.
Pool Descriptions & What To Expect
*NEW* Hot Springs at Mountain Village Resort
Because of the popularity of the hot spring, the resort has opened two new and private pools!
Sandhill Crane Hot Spring and Bluebird Hot Spring. These 8×8 tubs fit up to 10 guests each.
Call 800-843-5475 to reserve or book online here.
Rates are $50 for two adults and $5 for each additional person.
The Original Hot Spring: Osprey Hot Spring House
You can find the small log building situated on the banks of the Valley Creek. It’s just a short walk from the lodge, about 10 minutes on foot.
Inside, you’ll find two changing rooms, benches to sit and place your items, and huge barn doors that swing open to the stunning mountain views.
We definitely recommend keeping the doors open to breathe in that fresh mountain air and enjoy the jaw-dropping views of the Sawtooth Mountain Range!
The natural hot water of the spring outside is piped into the barn structure, heating the pool to a comfortable temperature of 98-104 degrees Fahrenheit.
There is one single pool, and it’s large enough to fit eight people.
What To Pack & Hot Springs Etiquette
Before Soaking: We definitely think that hot springs etiquette is an essential part of any good soaking experience. Read up on our 15 tips to make it the best experience for you and everyone around you!
Because this pool is on private property, swimsuits are required to be worn. It’s also a popular spot, so you will very likely be sharing your space with other soakers!
Bring a pair of easy slip-on/slip-off shoes for the short walk to the building. If it’s cold outside, wear your swimsuit, and throw on a winter coat or parka over your suit.
Get our free (printable!) checklist: Our Complete Hot Spring Packing List
When getting out, wrap yourself in a towel, throw on your winter coat, and scurry back to your hotel room.
It’s REALLY cold outside in the wintertime, so we like to deal with changing out of a wet suit in the comfort of our hotel room!
Directions To The Secret Pool
What if you can’t get a reservation? No problem, there’s a smaller, more primitive pool located at the creek’s edge!
This hot spring’s access is dependent on the time of year. In the spring, the water levels wash out the pool, making it too high and too cold!
We recommend visiting in the late summer or early fall.
Have you soaked at Mountain Village Hot Springs? What was your experience like? Share with us in the comments below!
More Things To Do In Stanley, Idaho
Is Mountain Village Resort Hot Springs just one stop on your trip in Stanley, Idaho? Here are some other cool things to do in the area!
How to Get To Goldbug Hot Springs near Salmon, Idaho
12 Incredible Twin Falls, Idaho Activities
Everything You Need To Know About Boat Box Hot Springs
Things to do in Bozeman, Montana in the Winter