5 Must-Visit Hot Springs in the Idaho Sawtooth Range

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When you hear Idaho, do you think of hot springs? I definitely didn’t. For me, Idaho brings up images of potatoes and small towns. Spending time in a hot spring doesn’t even make the list.

Weirdly enough, Idaho hot springs are plentiful. In fact, Idaho has more hot springs than any other state in the U.S. Yep, let that soak in.

If you’re planning a trip to Idaho, you should add hot spring hopping to your list of activities. In case Idaho isn’t on your list, keep reading for some amazing reasons to drop everything and book a flight to Idaho.

5 Must-Visit Hot Springs in Idaho

Pine Flat Hot Springs

Pine Flat Hot Spring was the first Idaho hot spring we visited and it did not disappoint. Getting to this spring required more effort than others which meant we had the entire place to ourselves. The hot spring is slightly more than an hour from Stanley but well worth the trip.

The trail to the hot spring starts in the Pine Flat Campground. Unfortunately, the campground is closed until May so we parked at the gate and walked to the trailhead.

From the gate to the beginning of the hot springs it was a little under a mile. The walk is super chill and very easy.

Once at the first hot springs, there are a ton of little pools. The one pictured is more difficult to access.

Either you have to wade through the freezing water or climb up and then down a steep hill. We chose the latter. I’m not sure I would recommend it unless you have shoes with some tread.

Bring a headlamp along with you if you plan to go around sunset.

Kirkham Hot Springs

Kirkham Hot Springs is probably the most popular Idaho hot spring we visited. Despite that, we actually had the entire place to ourselves. The decision to show up at 6:30 am was definitely the right call.

Similar to Pine Flat, Kirkham Hot Spring is about an hour away from Stanley. If you don’t care about being there during golden hour, you can group these two together since they’re only about 20 minutes apart. Keep in mind that Kirkham will most likely be busy during the day.

The parking lot for this beautiful place is right off the road. After parking, the walk is about 10 minutes down to the river.

There are a bunch of pools to choose from. We hopped around during our time there since we didn’t have to navigate other people. I 100% recommend exploring the area and trying out as many pools as possible.

Don’t forget to bring towels along so you’re not freezing on your walk back to the car!

Boat Box Hot Springs

One of the closest Idaho hot springs to Stanley, Boat Box, is just a short 20-minute drive away. Of all the hot springs we visited, Boat Box was the most unique. A small wooden box on the side of the river with piping hot water being fed in with a tube.

Boat Box is well known in the area so we chose to go at sunrise (always the best choice to avoid crowds) and were rewarded with an empty hot spring. Parking is limited but we didn’t have an issue finding a spot!

The water was piping hot. I used the bucket on the side to pour cold water from the river into the tub to cool it off so it didn’t burn my skin off.

I wore waterproof sandals to all the hot springs and I’m glad I did. Navigating some of these icy areas can be super tricky and if you want to dip in the cold river, you’ll be grateful for something on your feet.

Sunbeam Hot Springs

Sunbeam Hot Spring is another great option close to Stanley. This Idaho hot spring is nestled between the road and the river.

The number of pools depends on the time of year. When we were there the water level was high so we only had a few pools to choose from. Sunbeam is similar to Boat Box in that there is a box to soak in just like you would a hot tub.

We showed up at sunset and had to contend with a few other groups of people. Despite being close to the road, this hot spring is relatively peaceful and we had a great time soaking.

Mountain Village Hot Springs

If you aren’t looking to take a drive then Mountain Village Hot Spring is the perfect option for you. Located right in Stanley, this hot spring is based on the reservation so you’re guaranteed to have the place to yourself.

The hot spring is free if you are a guest at the hotel, but you can also pay a day fee to soak in it if you’re staying elsewhere.

Of all the Idaho hot springs we visited, this one had the best views. The sawtooth mountain backdrop is kind of hard to contend with. The water temperature was practically perfect and we had an entire hour to enjoy ourselves before the next group arrived.

How to Get There

The best way to get to Idaho is either by car or plane. If you’re lucky enough to live within driving distance, Idaho is an incredible place for road-tripping. The views are stunning and there are so many hidden gems to pull off to explore.

If you’re not in the vicinity, flying into Boise is your best option. Boise is honestly way more fun than we thought it would be so if you have extra time, plan a day or two here. Otherwise, pick up a rental car and hit the road!

Where to Stay

Stanley, Idaho, with a population of 69, is the best place for all of your hot spring adventures. The town is quaint and has the most picturesque setting.

In the winter, temperatures plummet here so make sure to bring along some cozy gear. We visited in the spring and found the weather to be relatively mild.

Unless you visit in the summer, most of the accommodation is closed because the area doesn’t see enough traffic. We chose to stay at Mountain Village Resort and Triangle C Cabins. Although Triangle C was a clear favorite for us, the restaurant at Mountain Village is incredibly good for a small town.

The beautiful thing about Stanley is that it is right at the base of the Sawtooth Range. That means if you are visiting in the summer you can also hit up some day hiking while you’re there.

Don’t sweat it if you visit in the winter though because Stanley is within driving distance of more than 10 hot springs. Be aware that if you visit in the shoulder seasons you may be able to hike at a lower elevation, but most of the hiking trails will still be covered in snow.

Hot Spring Etiquette

Visiting a hot spring can be so invigorating. The steam from the natural hot water feels amazing and if you’re lucky, you can have it all to yourself. The important thing to remember about these areas is that they are delicate and require us to practice leave no trace principles.

The main principles are: Leave it better than you found it, Don’t trample wildlife, and Be respectful of other visitors who are waiting a turn.

Additionally, it’s always good practice to use the restroom before you head out so you don’t need it while you’re there. If nature calls, definitely do not go in the spring. Take care of business away from water sources.

I always bring my Kula Cloth with me on adventures like this because I am not a fan of drip drying. TMI? Maybe…. but it’s the truth.

Some hot springs in the area are clothing optional. Don’t be shocked if you see some middle-aged white man having a soak in the nude. You’ve been forewarned.

What to Bring

Taking a soak in a hot spring may be a new adventure for some, so I’ve created a short list of things to bring below (and some things to leave behind).

First and foremost, make sure to pack a swimsuit, towel, and waterproof sandals. I’d also recommend bringing a change of clothes, a water bottle, and sunglasses.

Whatever your beverage of choice (no judgment here), please opt for cans instead of glass bottles. Broken glass near the river or hot spring areas can be dangerous for humans and animals.

Try to avoid wearing sunscreen if possible. I recommend going around sunset or sunrise to avoid needing to use sunscreen as it can be harmful to the water (most hot springs feed into the river).

Also, going at sunrise or sunset increases your chance of having the place all to yourself. What more could you want?

Wrap-Up: 5 Must-Visit Hot Springs in Idaho

Taking a trip to see Idaho hot springs is always a good idea. Here are 5 that should 100% be on your list: Pine Flat Hot Springs, Kirkham Hot Springs, Boat Box Hot Springs, Sunbeam Hot Springs, and Mountain Village Hot Springs.

If you plan on soaking during your time in Idaho remember these things: always practice leave no trace principles, pack appropriately for the weather, don’t forget a towel, and go at sunrise/sunset to minimize crowds.

Idaho is such a gem and a place I can’t wait to revisit.

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