Here in Idaho, the best way to experience our great outdoors is to, well, get outdoors. But what better way to relax and drink up one of our millions of stunning views than to literally soak them in from one of Idaho's hundreds of hot springs? There isn't one.
Hot springs are geothermally heated pools, often formed from hot trickling streams and waterfalls emerging directly from the earth's crevices - and there are lots of these natural wonders in Idaho. For this reason, as the water pours over rocks and dissolves natural solids, hot springs can also boast mineral and rehabilitative properties, making them a free - or nearly free - rejuvenating spa experience. So whether beating the chill on a crisp, winter day or planning a relaxing summer getaway weekend, pack a swimsuit (or not), grab some friends, and check out some of the best hot springs in Idaho, ranging from developed resort-style havens to remote natural pools.
1. Goldbug Hot Springs
Nestled in Idaho's rugged backcountry, Goldbug is without a doubt one of Idaho's most beautiful hidden hot springs. Fed by multiple waterfalls, a day trip to this remote gem will require a two-mile hike that passes through private property. It's absolutely worth the effort, however!
2. Burgdorf Hot Springs
A cozy resort tucked away just North of McCall, Burgdorf Hot Springs boasts an Olympic-sized, naturally-fed pool, an enclosed child pool, and quaint cabins for those wishing to soak under the stars after hours.
3. Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs is a popular destination for Idaho families and travelers alike. With multiple outdoor hot pools, as well as an indoor pool complex, heated walkways, and a climbing wall, you can wrap yourself in a cocoon of steam and soak your worries away, year-round. This hot spring resort is renowned for its healing powers, attracting visitors throughout the year who come from all over to this small town to take a dip in these steamy waters.
4. Sacajawea Hot Springs
Located near the trailhead of the Sawtooth Wilderness, Sacajawea is a set of user-made pools that offer stunning views of the mountains, but because of their rustic location, will require a slight effort on your part to maintain the perfect temperature -- namely, stirring the pool to keep the ideal balance of hot and cold, just the way nature intended.
5. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
An easy drive through the Clearwater National Forest, a scenic moss-covered trail, and a quaint bridge will lead you to this magical hot spring off the beaten path. These waterfall pools are some of Idaho's most picturesque natural hot tubs, but after peak snow runoff, can become submerged. Locals recommend the Weir Hot Springs nearby as a backup, but there may or not be a "secret" spring for willing adventure-seekers who don't wish to travel too far.
6. Trail Creek Hot Springs
One of Idaho's best soaks is just outside Cascade. Here, hot water trickles down colorful, algae-laden rocks into the pool from above while cool water weaves its way in from Trail Creek, feeding multiple reinforced pools. Simply divine! Be aware that the road to this hot spring may be closed during the winter months and you should check all road closures before venturing to these soak-worthy hot pools.
7. Stanley Hot Springs
A scenic, but challenging, six-mile hike will take you through the Selway-Bitterroot wilderness to this hidden gem just outside Kooskia. Spoiler alert: you might just encounter a moose or two during your soak at Stanley Hot Springs.
Hot springs. Are. AHHHmazing.
With hundreds of natural hot pools tucked into every nook and cranny of our landscape, these few hot springs are just a taste of everything that Idaho has to offer, but for conservation and overcrowding reasons, we locals sometimes like to keep the absolute best spots (and the best shortcuts to reach them) to ourselves. So whether your personal fav made this list or not, just be sure to respect nature and keep your human footprint light so that these natural wonders will last for years to come.
For another must-visit hot spring in Idaho, check out Trinity Hot Spring Resort. Or, skip the soak and check out our list of winter hikes in Idaho instead.
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