Fun fact: Idaho has more natural hot springs than any other state in the country. Pretty cool, right? If you have yet to experience one of these stunning hot springs in Idaho for yourself, then it’s high time you plan an adventure to one! Considering we have so many to choose from, deciding on which one to visit can be an overwhelming task. However, there’s one hot spring that is a must for any Idahoan no matter what — Goldbug Hot Springs. This hot springs trail takes you deep into the Idaho backcountry and leads you to one of the most serene hot spring pools you’ve ever witnessed. In the end, the hike is SO worth it, so be sure to check this out.

Idaho is loaded with beautiful natural hot springs. However, it seems the ones that take a little effort to access always feel the absolute best. Goldbug Hot Springs is the perfect example. Accessible via a mild 3.5-mile hike, this place is so worth the journey.
陳韻安/TripAdvisor
Goldbug Hot Springs is located near the small town of Salmon and is within the Salmon National Forest. The out-and-back trail leading to the hot springs is short and challenging. However, soaking in the hot springs at the end is the perfect reward after accomplishing this moderate hike.
Bama86/TripAdvisor
You'll find the trailhead to Goldbug Hot Springs by a dirt road off of U.S. Route 93. The first quarter-mile of the trail is on private land that's part of a Bureau of Land Management easement. Hikers should be extra respectful of this area so others can use it for years to come.
LittleLily29/TripAdvisor

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There's approximately 1,350-feet of elevation gain over two miles, so be sure to bring water and go as slowly as you'd like! The trail feels incredibly remote, but you'll be delighted to find that it's usually well-maintained throughout the year.
Mitchell Friedman/Flickr
The last half-mile is the steepest, so prepare yourself. However, the promise of Goldbug's blissful waters is the perfect motivation. As soon as the springs come into view, you can't help but be in total awe of their beauty.
Aiden Worth/Google
The spring is nestled right along Warm Spring Creek and contains several waterfall-fed pools. The scene is like something out of a fairytale! The water is listed as having a temperature of around 113 degrees Fahrenheit, but the temperatures can vary depending on the time of year.
marcmoss/Flickr
Access to the hot spring is free and open year-round. Whether you're in the mood for a unique backcountry adventure or a place to soak and relax for the day, Goldbug Hot Springs in Idaho is the perfect place. This hidden gem is bound to become one of your favorite spots so be sure to check it out soon.
JL Hardscapes/Google

Ready to set off on this awe-inspiring adventure? Make sure you bring a trail map along on your journey to these hot springs in Idaho.

Have you accomplished this primitive hot springs trail? This is by far one of the best natural hot springs in Idaho, don’t you think? What’s your favorite? Let us know in the comments! For more destinations like this one, be sure to check out our list of 10 Incredible Hot Springs To Visit In Idaho.

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Hot Springs In Idaho

Courtnie Erickson | March 06, 2022

What is the best hot springs resort in Idaho that I should visit?

There are several natural hot springs in Idaho that should be placed high on your bucket list. However, when you are searching for the best hot springs resort in Idaho to check out, Lava Hot Springs is the place. Located in southern Idaho, this resort offers activities for the entire family. Not only are there multiple hot pools for you to soak and relax in, but just four blocks away are indoor and outdoor aquatic centers complete with water slides, shallow areas for the kids, rock-climbing walls, and diving platforms. Lava Hot Springs is one hot springs resort in Idaho where you can easily spend an entire weekend.

What are some of the best winter getaways in Idaho?

No matter the time of year, Idaho is an exceptional place to explore. During the cold and chilly months of the year, we suggest a visit to Harriman State Park. This is one of the best winter getaways in Idaho because it offers everything you need for the perfect vacation. This state park features trails for snowshoes, cross-country skis, and Fat Bikes. You can also just relax in one of the yurts located in the park. Harriman State Park also sits within a 16,000-acre wildlife refuge so you never know what animals you may see during your visit.

If you are searching for someplace where you can relax and let life’s worries wash away, consider a visit to a natural hot spring in Idaho. There are hot springs scattered all across the state and while some require a short hike before you can soak in its waters, others do not. You can check out eight of our favorite year-round hot springs in Idaho in this article.

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Goldbug Hot Springs, Salmon, ID 83467, USA