Idaho Hot Springs

1. KIRKHAM HOT SPRINGS

Of all the Idaho hot springs, this one is arguably the most well-known in the state. It’s an insanely beautiful, multi-tiered hot spring along the side of the Payette River. The cascading waterfalls, crystal clear pools next to the river, and steaming hillside were some of the many beautiful features you can expect here.

*There is a $5.00 fee to park your car for day use, so bring cash! Alternatively, you can reserve a spot at the campground and have access to the hot springs 24 hours a day!

2. BOAT BOX HOT SPRINGS

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.

**This location is run and maintained by locals and is extremely small. Take extra care when visiting Boat Box and be courteous of the capacity it may hold. Because of its size, even the smallest bit of damage or misuse can have a big impact on the space. Planning your visit during an unpopular time can give you a better chance of enjoying this tiny Idaho hot spring!

3. HOT SPRING 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. You can experience a serene mountain soak with one of the most spectacular views in the state!

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.

Want a Unique Place To Stay Around Here? Try Backcountry Yurt Camping!

4. TRAIL CREEK HOT SPRINGS

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!). 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, this hot spring was built up by past soakers to fill several pools with steaming hot water. Someone also 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.

5. 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.

Cabins are $40 per person per night, and they require a $10/ night firewood fee in the winter months (trust us, you’ll want that firewood to keep warm!).

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 electricity, 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).

6. THE SPRINGS MOUNTAIN RESORT – IDAHO CITY

The Springs in Idaho City is a luxurious hot spring location just an hour north of Boise, Idaho. Here, you can choose between a large communal area or your own private hot tub and sauna.

The admission is affordable ($20 per adult), but 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!

7. ROCKY CANYON HOT SPRINGS

Rocky Canyon Hot Springs is a series of natural pools on a hillside near Garden Valley, Idaho. Getting here 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.

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!

And many many more!

We like to share common courtesies and mutual responsibilities for all soakers who wish to partake.

Please keep these hot springs etiquette tips mind as your help will allow these places to be enjoyed for years to come!

1. KEEP THEM CLEAN.

Natural springs and the 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.

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.

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. BE RESPECTFUL OF OTHER VISITORS.

Everyone comes for their own reasons. Be respectful of people who wish for a silent soak.

5. BE AWARE OF HOT SPRINGS 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.