13 Stunning Idaho Hot Springs

Idaho is one of the most underrated places I have ever visited. I fell in love with the charming rolling mountains, fantastic rivers, endless lakes, and even the friendly people. But there is something else that made me fall in love with it even more, and that is the hot springs! Idaho hot springs are unique and stunning! So after exploring Idaho for a week, I decided to make a list of my favorite hot springs. I have noted some free hot springs as well as some commercial ones. These are perfect after a long hike or bike ride. Trust me, you will love it!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you. 

Best Idaho Hot Springs Map

Hot Springs Etiquette

I hate that I have to say this, but please do not leave any trash behind if you are visiting a hot spring. I have noticed that hot springs are usually some of the most trashed places when it comes to the outdoors. It breaks my heart, and I hope more people realize that this is not ok. Here are some other guidelines when it comes to soaking in Idaho Hot Springs:

• Clothing may be optional at some of these places. Make sure to read the rules of each area beforehand, and don’t be surprised if you see a boob or two.
• Be respectful of other people. There might be a line to soak in the hot springs, so be patient.
• I’ll state this again, but do not litter.

Best Idaho Hot Springs

Goldbug Hot Springs

One of the best natural hot springs in Idaho is Goldbug Hot Springs. This hot spring is Instagram famous, and for a good reason. The rolling mountains and hills that seem to go on forever make this a perfect spot for pictures. I suggest this for sunrise so you can have the place all to yourself. You also have to work to get this view. The trail is around 4 miles round trip, and you can even camp near the path.

Frenchmans Hot Springs

Frenchman’s Hot Springs is located near Ketchum, Idaho. There are many places to soak, but you have to get there early to get the extra warm area. The water is a little too cold in the other areas, but you can sit there and wait while people leave. This area is usually packed with many people especially in the afternoon.

Lava Hot Spring

While there are many untouched natural hot springs, the commercial Lava Hot Springs is definitely worth seeing and adding to your must-stop activity list when visiting Idaho.

The town of Lava Hot Spring is located in the southeast of Idaho, not too far from Pocatello, and became famous for its hot springs sources. The hot pools facility is just a few blocks from the city center, with a large parking lot. There is an entrance fee to enjoy the hot pools ($8.00 per adult on weekdays and $10.00 on weekends and holidays)

On-site, there are five outdoor pools, each at a different temperature, ranging from 102˚ F to 112˚ F. While it is a commercial hot springs facility, it still feels natural with the choice of pool material, vegetation, and calm atmosphere. A few steps away from the pools is a lovely garden and walking path. Make sure to stop by before or after your natural soak. Plus, the parking lot is next to a park with picnic tables. There is also access to the river by the parking lot, where you can rent tubes to float down the river.

-By Emilie at Love Life Abroad

Mountain Village Resort

I loved soaking here. I will warn you that there are limited times and spots to the Mountain Village Resort Hot Spring. When we went, we could only soak for an hour, and there was also only one slot left. I wanted to soak during sunrise for better lighting, but there was no time available. It was free since we stayed at the resort, but as I said, the time slots get filled up pretty quick! You can learn more about this stunningly picturesque area here.

This hot spring is located inside a barn and has views of a flowing river and the mountains in the distance.

Pine Flats Hot Springs

Pine Flats Hot Springs, located in Boise National Forest about an hour and 15 minutes west of Stanley, Idaho, are beautiful natural hot springs tucked along the Payette River. It features a pool carved into a cliff overlooking the river below and a hot waterfall cascading down a craggy hill. To get to the springs, you’ll need to park in the visitor’s lot for the Pine Flats Campground ($5 for a day-use pass or free with an Interagency Pass) and hike from the trailhead approximately 0.3 miles.

While the hike is generally pretty straightforward, there are a few hilly parts, and it’s somewhat rocky, so you’d benefit from wearing some hiking sandals or boots. Once you spot the waterfall flowing down the hill to your right, you’ll have reached the hot springs, most of which are constructed in the river itself by other hot spring soakers, using riverbed rocks. For the best experience, though, climb up the loose rocky hill about 75 feet to the east of the waterfall- on top of the hill, you’ll find a private pool filled with perfectly warm water, where you can soak and watch rafters paddle down the river below!

-By Jessica Schmit at Uprooted Traveler

Sun Beam Hot Springs

Sun Beam Hot Springs was my absolute favorite! I loved it! I enjoyed how warm the water was, and the surrounding mountains, wildflowers, and rivers made it into a magical experience. There is also a lot more room for parking than other hot springs, and the hot springs had room for many people.

Cove Creek Hot Springs

Cove Creek hot springs is located in between Boat Box Hot Springs and Sunbeam Hot Springs. Out of these three, this is probably my least favorite because the area was a little too small, and the water was not deep enough. It is still worth it to check it out, though. The hot spring is also located right next to a campground. I would be wary of camping here, though. There are people in and out of the area and, my friend’s tent got stolen while they were exploring.

Boat Box Hot Springs

Boat Box Hot Springs is located in Stanley, Idaho, on the side of the road. If you are driving quickly on highway 75, then you might miss it. The parking area is tiny, and as you can see from the photo, the hot water is inside a small little tub that can only fit 2-3 people. That is why it is best to go during sunrise to avoid the crowds. We went during sunrise, and there was only a couple in the tub. No one else was in line. After waiting for 10 minutes, we had it all to ourselves.

Rocky Canyon Hot Springs

Located along the Middle Fork Payette River in the Boise National Forest, Rocky Mountain Hot Springs is one of Idaho’s most beautiful hot springs. Getting there is not that difficult, but the way to the springs is full of adventure as you have to forge the river to access the pools. I recommend wearing waterproof hiking boots to protect your feet from the sharp rocks. The rocks are slippery, so you must be careful while crossing the river.

The best time to visit these springs is June to September when the water level is not too high. You will get different water temperatures in these cascading pools. You can choose the best pool while climbing up the hillside. You will love the calmness and peacefulness of nature in these primitive springs. The river is adjoined to the spring, so if it gets hot, you can soak in the cold river. Due to its location, it’s not possible to camp beside these springs, but there are plenty of camping spots available throughout the place.

Please don’t use soaps or shampoos in the water and pack your trash out to keep the place clean.

-By Trijit Mallick from Budget Travel Buff

Other Best Hot Springs In Idaho

There are so many hot springs in Idaho! Here are some other popular ones. Also, each location is shown in the Google Maps above :

• Bonneville Hot Springs
• Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
• Kirkham Hot Springs

Conclusion

Thanks for reading all about my best Idaho hot springs guide! Make sure to check out my other posts on the outdoors:

• Best Things To Do In Grand Teton National Park
• Best Things To Do In Yellowstone
• Best Things To Do In Stanley Idaho

Pin For Later: Natural Hot Springs Idaho