Idaho is the hot springs capital of the United States. With 340+ known thermal springs, the state has more soakable hot springs than any other. The combination of volcanic geology, vast public land (63% of Idaho is federal land), and relatively low population means you can find pristine, uncrowded natural pools throughout the state.
Most Idaho hot springs are free, on public land, and range from easy roadside access to multi-day backcountry hikes.
The Best of Idaho
1. Goldbug Hot Springs
The crown jewel of Idaho hot springs. A hike through a narrowing canyon leads to a series of hot pools cascading down a mountainside. Multiple pools at different temperatures, all with stunning views of the Salmon River Mountains. Free, primitive, and considered by many to be the most beautiful hot spring in America.
2. Kirkham Hot Springs
The most accessible hot spring in Idaho. Natural pools right along the South Fork Payette River, visible from the road. Hot water cascades down the hillside into rock pools where you can mix hot spring water with cold river water. A developed campground sits right next door, making it easy to turn a quick soak into an overnight trip.
3. Trail Creek Hot Springs
Two main pools tucked into a forested setting — one hotter, one cooler, so you can dial in the temperature you want. Traditionally clothing optional. One of the most consistently pleasant soaks in central Idaho, with the kind of quiet atmosphere that keeps regulars coming back season after season.
4. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
A series of pools along Warm Springs Creek in the Clearwater National Forest. Multiple soaking spots at different temperatures, all surrounded by lush old-growth forest. The trail from the road is well-worn and scenic, and the variety of pools means you can usually find a quiet one even on busier days.
5. Stanley Hot Springs
A rewarding hike through pristine forest leads to one of Idaho’s most remote and beautiful springs. Located near the town of Stanley in the Sawtooth Valley, this is the kind of soak you earn — and the solitude alone makes every step worth it.
6. Pine Flats Hot Springs
Several natural pools strung along the South Fork Payette River near Lowman. Easy access from the highway makes these a popular stop for river runners and road trippers. The pools vary in temperature, and the riverbank setting is hard to beat on a summer afternoon.
7. Boat Box Hot Springs
A unique spring best experienced by floating in on the river, though a short trail also reaches it. The box-shaped rock pool sits right on the riverbank with views up and down the canyon. One of Idaho’s most scenic and memorable soaks.
8. Sunbeam Hot Springs
Right off the highway along the Salmon River, hot water seeps directly into the river and creates warm swimming holes. The main pool has been shaped and reinforced by visitors over the years. An easy and satisfying stop on the drive between Stanley and Salmon.
9. Weir Creek Hot Springs
A short hike off the highway leads to multiple pools in a creek canyon. Less crowded than nearby Jerry Johnson, with naturally formed rock pools offering good temperature variety. A great option if you want a more secluded soak along the Highway 12 corridor.
10. Rocky Canyon Hot Springs
The closest natural hot springs to Boise. A short but steep scramble leads to pools along the South Fork Boise River. Popular on weekends but beautiful year-round — and the fact that you can get from downtown to a wild hot spring in under an hour is part of what makes Idaho special.
11. Loftus Hot Springs
A hidden gem near the Middle Fork Salmon River. Less well-known than the marquee springs, which means fewer crowds and more of that backcountry solitude. A natural rock pool in a beautiful canyon setting that rewards those who seek it out.
12. Skinmeyer Hot Springs
Near Cascade, Idaho. A large warm pool popular with locals — cooler than most hot springs, which actually makes it comfortable enough for swimming. The mountain setting is gorgeous and the relaxed vibe makes it a favorite for long, lazy soaks.
13. Bonneville Hot Springs
Large warm pools near the Middle Fork Boise River. Moderate temperatures and easy access make these great for families or anyone who prefers a gentler soak. A mellow, welcoming spot that still feels wild and natural.
14. The Springs (Idaho City)
A developed hot spring near Idaho City, about an hour from Boise. Natural pools in a forest setting with basic amenities. A good introduction to Idaho hot springs if you prefer some infrastructure and don’t mind a modest entry fee.
15. Burgdorf Hot Springs
A historic hot springs site in the mountains north of McCall. The pool is maintained but primitive, and the setting is gorgeous. The drive through the Idaho backcountry is half the experience — this is one of those springs where the journey and the destination are equally memorable.
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Planning Your Idaho Hot Springs Trip
Best Base Camps
- Boise: Gives you access to canyon springs and river corridor soaks along the South Fork — the easiest hot spring base camp in the state.
- Stanley: Gateway to the Sawtooth Valley and Salmon River corridor, with some of Idaho’s most iconic and remote springs within reach.
- McCall/Cascade: A mountain town vibe with historic and lesser-known springs scattered through the surrounding backcountry.
- Highway 12 corridor: The Lochsa River road is lined with forest springs — perfect for a road trip with multiple soaks in a single day.
Best Time to Visit
Idaho hot springs are a year-round activity. Summer offers the most comfortable hiking access. Winter soaking is magical when snow lines the pools, but road access to some springs may be limited.
What to Know
- Most Idaho hot springs are on National Forest land and are free
- Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most primitive springs
- Road conditions vary seasonally, especially in central Idaho
- Fire closures can affect access in summer and fall
Idaho also has the largest selection of free hot springs in the US — many of the 50 best free springs in America are right here. If you plan to camp overnight at a spring, see our hot springs camping guide for what to expect and how to plan.
Explore All 340+ Idaho Hot Springs
Discover Idaho’s 340+ hot springs — including GPS directions, current conditions, community reviews, and offline maps — in the Soakr app. Download Soakr free for iOS