Idaho is home to among the most stunning natural hot springs in the United States. With some 130 soakable geothermal pools out of 340, Idaho has already established itself as an in-demand destination for hot spring enthusiasts, and its unique geological location plays a significant role in its ability to do so. Let’s look more at Idaho’s geo-benefits, and then we’ll take you on a tour of some of our favorite free Idaho soaks.
Wild rivers twist and wind through the central mountain ranges of Idaho, creating the perfect conditions for geothermal pockets to form along their banks. These hot springs range from ones you can access by little more than stepping out of your car, to those that need a little longer and a little more determination to get to. They are all worth visiting for the spectacular view of the surrounding forests, promising a picturesque and serene experience. But why are those hot pockets in Idaho? Some scientists say it all started with a meteorite…
90% of Idaho’s 340 hot springs come from the bubbling-up of leftover energy heating water near fault lines – energy that came from the changes made when a meteorite hit in today’s southeast Oregon some 17 million years ago. The collision radically changed the landscape – turning lush forest into the high desert you see today – and went so deep, the effects can still be seen today as the earth’s crust continues to shift above the hot spot, not only creating almost all the hot springs in Idaho, but most notably in Yellowstone, “Craters of the Moon,” and the basalt lava flows you’ll see throughout southeast Idaho, such as those off Interstate 84.
Now you know something of the “whys/hows,” let’s move on to our recommendations for a free soak, as you explore the other fun and fascinating sites of Idaho. And before you click on, don’t miss our recommendations for playing it safe and keeping to the “hot springs” etiquette so as to preserve that magical experience for those who come after us on the trail.
Rocky Canyon Hot Springs
Rocky Canyon Hot Springs, while perhaps not the most breathtaking gem you’d find in the state, is still a nice, easily accessible natural jacuzzi to soak and relax in.
Right next to the road, but needing an ice-cold river-crossing to get to, there are a total of five pools to choose from, each with a different capacity and temperature, right by the river in locally-cared for rock walls. The Rocky Canyon Hot Springs offer a rustic charm that’s hard to come by these days, enveloped as they are in the lush green of the Boise National Forest.
Clothing is optional.
Sunbeam Hot Springs
Take your next treasure hunt on a winding trip through the breathtaking Salmon-Challis National Forest on Idaho’s Highway 75 – among the rugged wilderness along the stretch of the Salmon River are a multitude of thermal springs, each with its own unique character and charm. Perhaps the most popular of these hidden gems is Sunbeam Hot Springs.
Surrounded by towering pine trees and rugged mountain peaks, this secluded oasis offers an unforgettable experience, combining adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Sunbeam is another example of an Idaho hot springs that is close to the highway, meaning you can park your car and sink into those warm, mineral-rich waters within minutes.
Clothing is optional.
Weir Creek Hot Springs
Weir Creek Hot Springs is one of the most popular (and busiest!) outdoor natural spas in Idaho and Montana. Head there early in the day to soak among the peace, tranquility, and wild nature of Clearwater National Forest.
The main pool accommodates up to 10 people, while there are smaller pools scattered along the cooling Weir Creek springs for a more private soak alone or with loved ones.
Clothing is optional.
Trail Creek Hot Springs
Trail Creek Hot Springs (also known as Samuel’s Hot Springs) is a beautiful two-pool hot springs oasis nestled in the heart of the Idaho mountains. This one is a bit of a challenge to find, but that only serves to make it all the more special.
Soak in its naturally heated mineral-rich waters, surrounded by stunning views of the mountains, the natural pools offer a magical and peaceful escape.
Clothing is optional.
Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs
The three pools of the Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs, also known as Warfield Hot Springs, on both sides of the banks of the Warm Springs Creek in the depths of the Sawtooth National Forest, are easy to access via a short creek-crossing. Soak in your chosen geothermal pool as you admire the beautiful Idaho wilderness, and when those bubbling hot minerals get too much for you, go for a dip in the river to cool off!
Best visited in summer or fall (and also claiming a certain kind of magic in winter, if the road is open), Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs offers water rich in calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium.
Clothing is required.
