Legend Has It These Hot Springs In Idaho Have Healing Powers

It's no secret that hot springs are great for soothing your soul, but there are natural hot springs in Idaho that are quickly becoming world famous for their healing powers, both physical and mental. Lava Hot Springs is a tiny community in southeastern Idaho named after the aforementioned springs. These springs are locally renowned for their healing abilities and the small resort town attracts visitors throughout the year who come from all over to take a dip in these magic waters.

It was the Bannock-Shoshone Native Americans who originally inhabited the land and believed that the natural hot springs contained curative properties.

The Lava Hot Springs were originally known as "Poha-Ba" or "Land of Healing Waters" by the Shoshone-Bannock tribe.

The land was initially considered to be shared land between the Native Americans and the U.S. government in the late 1800s.

It has been recorded that the hot springs were considered a gathering place for several nomadic tribes, including Utes, Paiutes, Cheyenne, and the Flathead tribes. The Shoshone-Bannock people were the ones who mainly lived in the area.

These native tribes used the natural mineral water and mud baths for healing purposes.

Today, the springs take the form of five man-made pools ranging in temperature from 102 to 112 degrees Fahrenheit.

The pools are constantly being refreshed with new water since 2.5 million gallons make their way through the pools before draining out into the Portneuf River.

The pools are set among a beautiful sunken garden which highlights both native and imported plant species all year long.

It's hard to imagine a more relaxing setting than this! It's no wonder the small community of approximately 500 people swells to about 15,000 during its tourist season.

The hot springs are full of the purest mineral water, containing a variety of different minerals that are chock full of health benefits.

However, sulfur is not present in these waters .... which means no odor!

This is definitely one of the best places in Idaho to just sit back and relax. Even if you don't have any physical maladies in need of being cured, the soak is sure to refresh your mind and rejuvenate the soul!

Have you been to Lava Hot Springs? What was your experience like? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments. You can also learn more about Lava Hot Springs, including hours and rates, on the Lava Hot Springs website. Check out the Lava Hot Springs Facebook page for additional news and updates as well.

While Lava Hot Springs is a delightful day trip destination, make it an overnight getaway! Check out this unique campground with 1960s retro campers you can reserve. You may also want to check out a local vacation rental as well.