As the crisp air settles in and the leaves start to change, it’s the perfect time to explore some of our area’s most relaxing and rejuvenating hot springs. Whether you’re looking for a serene retreat or a cozy soak after a hike, our favorite spots offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and soothing warmth. Check them out below!
Gold Fork Hot Springs
From Boise: Take Highway 55 north towards McCall. Turn left onto Gold Fork Road near Donnelly (about 2 hours from Boise). Follow the dirt road for about 6 miles to reach the hot springs.
About the Hot Springs: Gold Fork Hot Springs is a commercial hot spring with beautifully maintained pools of varying temperatures. The pools are nestled among trees, offering a serene atmosphere. The water is mineral-rich, and the site includes changing rooms and a small snack shop.
Kirkham Hot Springs
From Boise: Take Highway 21 north towards Lowman. The hot springs are located about 1.5 hours from Boise, directly off Highway 21, just before Lowman.
About the Hot Springs: Kirkham Hot Springs is a popular natural hot spring located alongside the South Fork of the Payette River. The springs feature several pools with varying temperatures, and you can enjoy the sound of the nearby river while soaking. There are also small waterfalls of hot water cascading into the pools, making it a unique experience.
Miracle Hot Springs
From Boise: Take I-84 southeast towards Twin Falls. Exit at Buhl/Hagerman and follow signs towards Miracle Hot Springs (about 2 hours from Boise).The road is paved all the way to the hot springs.
About the Hot Springs: Miracle Hot Springs is a developed, commercial facility featuring multiple hot spring pools. The site includes private pools, public pools, and even rental domes for overnight stays. The mineral water is geothermally heated and maintained at comfortable temperatures. The setting is family-friendly, with amenities like changing rooms and a gift shop.
Sunbeam Hot Springs
From Boise: Take Highway 21 north towards Stanley, then continue on Highway 75 north.
The hot springs are located along Highway 75, about 10 miles east of Stanley (about 3 hours from Boise).
About the Hot Springs: Sunbeam Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located right beside the Salmon River. The site includes both natural rock pools and a man-made pool. The temperature can vary, and you can adjust it by mixing river water with the hot spring water. The scenery is spectacular, with views of the river and surrounding mountains.
Trail Creek Hot Springs
From Boise: Take Highway 55 north towards Cascade. Turn right onto Warm Lake Road, east of Cascade (about 2 hours from Boise). Follow the paved road for about 20 miles to a parking area, then a short hike will take you to the hot springs.
About the Hot Springs: Trail Creek Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located in a secluded area surrounded by forest. The hot springs feature rock pools that have been built up to retain the hot water, with the ability to adjust the temperature by controlling the flow of cold creek water. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for those looking to enjoy a quiet soak in nature.
Silver Creek Plunge
From Boise: Take Highway 55 north towards Banks, then turn east on Banks-Lowman Road.
Turn left onto Middle Fork Road, then right onto Forest Road 671 (about 2 hours from Boise).
Follow the dirt road for about 10 miles to Silver Creek Plunge, a developed hot springs resort.
About the Hot Springs: Silver Creek Plunge is a family-oriented hot springs resort featuring a large, spring-fed swimming pool. The water is naturally warm and treated, making it safe for swimming. The resort also offers cabins, camping sites, and various recreational activities such as hiking and fishing.
Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs
From Boise: Take Highway 75 north towards Ketchum. Turn left onto Warm Springs Road, just outside of Ketchum (about 3 hours from Boise). Follow the paved road for about 10 miles to reach the hot springs.
About the Hot Springs: Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs is a natural, undeveloped hot spring located along Warm Springs Creek. The pools are created by rock barriers in the creek, and the temperature can be adjusted by moving rocks to allow more or less cold creek water in. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors, offering a relaxing soak in a beautiful mountain setting.
Loon Creek Hot Springs
From Boise: Take Highway 21 north towards Stanley, then continue on Highway 75 north. Turn left onto Yankee Fork Road (about 3 hours from Boise). Follow the dirt road for about 30 miles to reach the remote Loon Creek Hot Springs.
About the Hot Springs: Loon Creek Hot Springs is a remote and rustic hot spring located deep in the Sawtooth Wilderness. The hot spring features a few natural rock pools with clear, warm water. It’s a true backcountry experience, requiring a long drive and potentially a hike, making it ideal for adventurous travelers seeking solitude.
Pine Flats Hot Springs
From Boise: Take Highway 21 north towards Lowman. Turn left onto the signed road for Pine Flats Campground, near Lowman (about 2 hours from Boise). Follow the road into the campground. The hot springs are a short walk from the parking area.
About the Hot Springs: Pine Flats Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located near the South Fork of the Payette River. The hot springs feature several pools with varying temperatures, including some close to the river where you can mix hot spring water with cold river water. The site is scenic, surrounded by trees and mountains, and the short hike to the springs adds to the adventure.
The Springs
From Boise: Take ID-21 N toward Idaho City for about 36 miles.
About the Hot Springs: The Springs in Idaho City is a popular mountain retreat known for its natural hot springs and spa experience. Located about an hour from Boise, it offers a relaxing setting with private and communal hot spring pools, a cozy lodge, and beautiful forest views. Guests can book private hot tubs, enjoy the large outdoor pool, or indulge in massages and other spa treatments. The Springs also has a cafe on-site, serving light snacks and drinks. It’s a great spot for a peaceful getaway, especially during the colder months when the warm water contrasts with the crisp mountain air.
Bonneville Hot Springs
About the Hot Springs: Bonneville Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located in a scenic setting. The hot springs feature several pools with varying temperatures, including a large swimming pool and smaller soaking pools. The water is mineral-rich and geothermally heated, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The site includes changing rooms, a small snack shop, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Rocky Canyon Hot Springs
From Boise: Take W State St to ID-55 N in Eagle. Turn right onto ID-55 N, and then follow Banks Lowman Rd to Middlefork Rd in Valley County. This route takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 63.1 miles. Once you arrive, you will need to park your vehicle and then make your way across the river to access the hot springs.
About the Hot Springs: More remote than other springs, Rocky Canyon Hot Springs pools are close to the road, but you do have to cross the river! The Middle Fork waters can be high and chilly, so it’s best to visit in late spring or summer when water levels decrease and temperatures rise. The many pools are free to access, and range from warm to steaming hot. The hottest pools will take a bit more effort to get to. It’s a more remote and natural experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors in a quiet setting.