If you’re looking to relax somewhere secluded and untether yourself from any corporate responsibilities, there’s no better place to find that than at the bottom of a minerally rich hot spring.
If you happen to be living in Idaho and have fancy some thermal relaxation and even escaping the barrier of clothing, we have just the place for you.
Loftus Hot Springs is one of the best hot springs in Idaho and is a thermal jewel a lot of people choose to enjoy, which makes it a hidden gem definitely worth visiting. So let us take you on a virtual tour of this delight to help you decide whether or not soaking in Lottus Hot Springs would be the suitable way to destress.
| Address | Middle Fork Boise River Road, Mountain Home, Idaho 83647 |
| Location | 50 miles from Boise |
| Open | All-year-round |
| Clothing | Optional |
| Temperature | 104°F – 110°F |
| Road Access | Moderate/hard; 4WD recommended |
| Admission | None |
All You Need To Know
This thermal beauty is located 50 miles northeast of Boise, along the Middle Fork of the Boise River Road. It is made up of two pools that still manage to maintain their natural image and allure despite the fact that they’re man-made. The bigger of the two is a cove or grotto-like pool that gets its water source from a hot waterfall cascading over the hill and then straight into the pool, making it a beautiful picture to take in. The temperature is 110°F. Not so comfortable in summer but good thing that winter is coming, right?
The small pool is laid beneath the big one and is also fed by it. The temperature hovers at 104°F. They’re both sandy bottomed and enveloped by Boise National Forest.
Important Information To Take Into Account
Here are some important pointers to consider before you decide to visit.
- Be careful of the poison ivy around the pools
- Beware of the glass at the bottom of the pools
- The nearest city is Boise which is 50 miles away. It’s recommended to stock up with all the necessities in case of an emergency.
- High clearance cars are definitely recommended to make this journey. The road is bumpy and rough.
- Even though Loftus Hot Springs is classified as a clothing optional destination, it’s important to remember that public nudity is illegal in Idaho. Some people choose to soak in their birthday suits due to the springs’ secluded location.
How Do I Get To Loftus Hot Springs?
From Boise, take Highway 21 and head east towards Mores Creek Bridge. After crossing the bridge, turn right onto Springs Shores Rd/Middle Fork Boise River Rd towards Atlanta. Stay on Middle Fork Boise River Rd. for 34 miles. You’ll see your destination on your left.
Any Accommodation Options Near Loftus Hot Springs?
As mentioned, the closest place you can find comfortable accommodation options is in Boise, which is a 2.5 hour drive away from Loftus Hot Springs.
You can find accommodation in Boise here or opt for camping instead.
Can I Camp There?
Seeing as Loftus Hot Springs is in Boise National Forest, you have a lot of dispersed camping options to explore.
Troutdale Campground is also located around 1.5 miles away.
Ninemeyer Campground is 4 miles away.
Badger Creek Campground is 7 miles away.
What Else Can I Explore In The Area?
If you’re outdoorsy – and we’re assuming that you are because you love natural hot springs – your best option would be to explore the natural wonders of Boise National Forest. Go hiking, wildlife- and birdwatching.
If you prefer something more urban, then you’ll have to turn to Boise yet again. Winter’s coming up so it’s highly recommended to visit the best ice skating rinks in Boise and have yourself some proper winter fun.
Other top attractions of Boise include:
- Boise River Greenbelt
- Idaho State Capitol Building
- Idaho Botanical Garden
- Old Idaho Penitentiary
- World Center For Birds of Prey
- Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center
As you can see, the selection is vast which means that the attractions in Boise can fit everyone’s preferences and expectations. From scenic hikes in wilderness to guided tours of literal penitentiaries, you will find it all in Boise.
Etiquette Guidelines
Every hot spring has its own quirks. They all have a set of rules that visitors need to follow regardless of what kind of spring you’re visiting. Visitors need to be extra conscious of their time in free and natural hot springs destinations seeing as they get no constant maintenance the way commercialized springs do.
For more general and very important “hot springs etiquette,” we highly recommend you take a moment to check out our carefully compiled easy-to-read list of “dos and don’ts”. And always, always respect our nature – pack out what you pack in and LEAVE NO TRACE.
The Final Takeaway
Loftus Hot Springs really is an ideal destination for all those looking for remoteness and seclusion. Take a hot dip in this geothermal oasis, have a quality conversation with a friend and reminisce with the beauty of Boise National Forest enveloping you! Sounds like a pretty good day, doesn’t it?!
Remember to plan well, use a 4WD for a smoother journey, make sure to clean up after yourselves so there’s no glass found at the bottom of the springs and most importantly, enjoy your soak!
Disclaimer
While we at Traxplorio do our very best to give you the latest information about these hot springs sites, life happens, weather happens, and property owners happen. We always recommend you go to the state web pages covering the hot springs to check for conditions, times, recommendations and closures (where relevant) before you head out. Thanks for understanding, and enjoy your soak!
Frequently Asked Questions
Loftus Hot Springs is located around 50 miles from Boise, Idaho, along the Middle Fork of the Boise River Road.
The temperature of Loftus Hot Spring pools ranges between 104°F – 110°F with the small one being cooler.
Officially? No. Unofficially – yes. Due to its secluded and remote location many people opt for nude soaking at Loftus Hot Springs. Bathe nude at your own discretion.
In a way, yes but as long as you’re careful, you’ll be just fine. Make sure to get a 4WD for a bumpy road to the spring. Be careful of the poison ivy around the pools and watch out for the glass at the bottom of the pools.
