17 Secret Hot Springs in Idaho’s Wilderness Areas

Idaho’s rugged wilderness harbors some of the most spectacular natural hot springs in the country, hidden away in remote corners where few people venture. These geothermal treasures provide the perfect escape from modern life’s chaos, offering mineral-rich waters surrounded by pristine forests, towering peaks, and star-filled skies.

While most visitors stick to well-known commercial hot springs, the real magic happens when you venture off the beaten path. Here is a list of 17 secret hot springs scattered throughout Idaho’s wilderness areas that reward adventurous souls with unforgettable experiences.

Kirkham Hot Springs

Kirkham Hot Springs sits along the South Fork Payette River — roughly 4 miles east of Lowman on Highway 21. The springs cascade down natural rock terraces, creating multiple pools with varying temperatures that feel like nature’s own water park. Steam rises from the hottest pools near the source, though cooler pools closer to the river offer a refreshing contrast. The sound of rushing water from nearby Kirkham Creek adds to the peaceful atmosphere, making this spot perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

Jerry Johnson Hot Springs

Located in the Clearwater National Forest, Jerry Johnson Hot Springs requires a moderate 1-mile hike through old-growth cedar and hemlock forest. The trail follows Warm Springs Creek leading to a series of natural pools set among granite and stone-lined terrain. These springs maintain temperatures between 98-106°F year-round. The mineral content gives the water a silky feel that’s incredibly soothing on tired muscles, while the remote location means you’ll often have the place to yourself, especially during weekday visits.

Weir Hot Springs

Weir Hot Springs offers one of the most scenic soaking experiences in central Idaho’s wilderness. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Middle Fork Salmon River, these springs provide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains while you relax in naturally formed pools. The springs maintain a comfortable temperature around 104°F — and the high mineral content creates water that feels almost therapeutic. Access requires a challenging hike or river trip, yet the spectacular setting makes every step worthwhile.

Goldbug Hot Springs

Goldbug Hot Springs demands a serious effort to reach, involving a steep 2-mile hike that gains over 1,000 feet in elevation. The payoff comes in the form of multiple terraced pools cascading down a mountainside — each offering different temperatures and views. The hottest pools sit near the source at around 110°F, while lower pools cool to more comfortable temperatures. The dramatic setting includes views of the Salmon River valley and surrounding peaks that stretch for miles in every direction.

Boat Box Hot Springs

Boat Box Hot Springs gets its quirky name from the single metal tub along the Middle Fork Salmon River, where visitors can fill it with piping hot spring water. These springs offer a unique combination of rustic charm and natural beauty. The temperature stays around 100°F — perfect for extended soaking sessions while watching the river flow by. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound here, with deer, elk, and various bird species frequently spotted in the surrounding forest.

Stanley Hot Springs

Stanley Hot Springs requires a 5-mile hike through dense forest, though the journey takes you past waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and pristine alpine scenery. The springs themselves consist of several small pools built into natural rock formations — maintaining temperatures between 96-102°F. The remote location in the Sawtooth Wilderness ensures a peaceful experience, far from any crowds or development. The mineral-rich water has a distinctive earthy smell that some find off-putting, yet the therapeutic benefits make it worth tolerating.

Sacajawea Hot Springs

Sacajawea Hot Springs sits in a beautiful meadow setting along Sacajawea Creek, accessible via a moderate 3-mile hike. The springs form a large, shallow pool that’s perfect for groups — with temperatures hovering around 98°F throughout most of the pool. Wildflowers bloom in abundance during summer months, creating a colorful backdrop for your soaking experience. The gentle temperature makes this spot ideal for extended relaxation, and the meadow setting provides excellent stargazing opportunities after dark.

Pine Flats Hot Springs

Pine Flats Hot Springs offers multiple pools spread across a forested hillside, each with its own character and temperature range. The main pool maintains around 105°F, while smaller pools vary from lukewarm to quite hot depending on their proximity to the source. Dense pine forest surrounds the area — providing natural privacy and a sense of wilderness immersion. The springs are accessible via a relatively easy 2-mile hike, making them popular with families and casual hikers.

Sunbeam Hot Springs

Sunbeam Hot Springs sits right along the Salmon River, offering the unique experience of soaking in hot water while cold river water flows just feet away. The springs create several small pools built into the riverbank — with temperatures ranging from 95-108°F. During high water periods, the river can partially flood the pools, creating an interesting mix of hot and cold water. The location provides excellent opportunities for combining hot spring soaking with river activities like fishing or swimming.

Trail Creek Hot Springs

Trail Creek Hot Springs hides in a narrow canyon along Trail Creek, accessible via a challenging 4-mile hike that includes several stream crossings. The springs form a series of small pools carved into the canyon walls — with the hottest reaching 112°F near the source. The enclosed canyon setting creates an intimate atmosphere, and the sound of the creek echoes off the rock walls. Spring runoff can make the creek crossings dangerous, so timing your visit for late summer or fall is essential.

Vulcan Hot Springs

Vulcan Hot Springs earned its name from the extremely hot water that bubbles up from deep underground, reaching temperatures over 180°F at the source. The springs cool as they flow downhill, creating a series of pools with more manageable temperatures around 100-106°F. The high mineral content gives the water a distinctive blue-green color and a slightly sulfurous smell. The remote location in the Frank Church Wilderness requires serious backpacking skills and multi-day commitment to reach.

Pistol Creek Hot Springs

Pistol Creek Hot Springs offers a classic wilderness hot spring experience along Pistol Creek in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. The springs form several natural pools surrounded by granite boulders, with temperatures ranging from 98-104°F. Access requires a long hike through rugged terrain, though the pristine wilderness setting makes the effort worthwhile. The springs are particularly beautiful during fall when the surrounding aspen trees turn golden yellow.

White Licks Hot Springs

White Licks Hot Springs sits in a remote valley accessible only by a challenging multi-day backpacking trip. The springs create a large, natural pool that maintains around 102°F, surrounded by meadows and forest. The high elevation location means snow can linger well into summer, creating a dramatic contrast between the warm spring water and the cold mountain air. Wildlife is abundant in this area, with regular sightings of elk, deer, and occasionally bears.

Shower Bath Hot Springs

Shower Bath Hot Springs gets its name from a natural rock formation that creates a waterfall effect as hot water cascades from above. The springs maintain temperatures around 100°F, and the waterfall feature provides a natural massage effect that’s incredibly relaxing. The location along Big Creek requires a long hike or horseback ride to reach, yet the unique geological features make it worth the effort. The springs are particularly impressive during winter when ice formations create a magical landscape.

Hospital Bar Hot Springs

Hospital Bar Hot Springs consists of multiple pools scattered across a gravel bar along the Middle Fork Salmon River. The springs range in temperature from 95-108°F, allowing visitors to choose their preferred heat level. The riverside location provides excellent opportunities for combining hot spring soaking with river activities, while the gravel bar setting offers plenty of space for camping. Access is typically by river trip, making this a destination for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

Krigbaum Hot Springs

Krigbaum Hot Springs offers a more developed hot spring experience while still maintaining its wilderness character. The springs form several rustic, human-enhanced pools, originally shaped by early visitors, with temperatures maintained around 104°F. The location along the South Fork Salmon River provides easy access to fishing and other river activities. The springs are accessible via a moderate hike, making them popular with day hikers and overnight campers alike.

Owl Creek Hot Springs

Owl Creek Hot Springs sits in a narrow valley surrounded by dense forest, accessible via a steep 3-mile hike. The springs create several small pools with temperatures ranging from 100-110°F, and the mineral content gives the water a distinctive milky appearance. The secluded location ensures privacy, while the forest setting provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The springs are particularly beautiful during winter when snow creates a stark contrast with the steaming hot water.

Nature’s Enduring Gift

These hidden gems represent more than just warm water in remote locations — they’re windows into Idaho’s geological history and testament to the power of natural forces. Each spring tells a story of underground water heated by the earth’s core, traveling through rock layers for decades before emerging in these spectacular wilderness settings. While technology continues to dominate our daily lives, these ancient springs remind us that some of the best experiences still come from the simple pleasure of soaking in nature’s own hot tubs. The effort required to reach these secret spots ensures they’ll remain unspoiled for future generations to discover and enjoy.