If you’ve lived in Idaho for any length of time, you know that our state is home to hundreds of deliciously relaxing hot springs. In fact, Idaho has more geothermal hot springs hidden across its landscape than any other state in the lower 48! But did you know the Gem State is home to multiple natural springs as well?
The majority of natural springs across the country are simply small, seasonal pools that appear in the after the snow-melt. Others, like Big Springs in Island Park, bubble with millions of gallons of crisp, refreshing water. Tucked away in Idaho’s eastern corner this mesmerizingly clear and idyllic spring is one of the headwaters of the Snake River, and boasts beauty unlike anywhere else in the state. One hundred and twenty million gallons of pure water a day surge out of the ground, fed by Henry’s Fork. It’s a dazzling sight!
Tucked away in Idaho's eastern corner and just minutes away from Yellowstone is a picturesque oasis: Big Springs.
Carved into the unique geologic formation of the Henrys Fork caldera, this spring seeps through ancient lava rock that forms the bed of the Snake River. Eventually, the waters here will travel across Fremont County to form the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls.
One of only a few natural springs of its size in the country, this perfect gem gushes millions of gallons of fresh, impossibly clear water.
Big Springs is also the one of the 40 largest natural springs in the world, and the only first-magnitude spring on earth that flows though ancient rhyolite lava. The lava bed through which Big Springs seeps is
Advertisement
Big Springs is set in a gentle, woodsy area, nurturing surrounding vegetation and wildlife into a lush haven that is has been beloved for generations for a multitude of reasons.
Looking over the bridge, you can see straight to the bottom of the pond and watch hundreds of trout and other creatures swim and play in their natural habitat - no fishing allowed! With a constant temperature of 52 degrees, it's not unusual to see osprey and eagles dive for a meal of fresh fish from the springs.
This natural beauty was labeled a National Natural Landmark for a reason!
Johnny Sack was a prominent community member and founding settler of Island Park remembered not only for his small stature, but for his incredible woodworking skills. He built his entire cabin by hand using a unique technique that preserved the tree bark. Tables, chairs, lamps, and walls were all crafted with this same technique, creating a stunning texture and color that isn't found anywhere else. Fortunately, this adorable historic building - which was added to the National Register in 1979 - is open to visitors.
But whether you come for the scenery, the wildlife, or the history, you'll absolutely love this piece of heaven!
