Hot Springs in Idaho

by Lysi Bishop Real Estate

7 Best Idaho Hot Springs Near Boise

Winters can be a time to hole up indoors and avoid outdoor activities altogether, but not for Idahoans. One of Idaho’s signature outdoor winter activities is soaking in hot springs, and lucky for Boiseans, there are dozens within a 3-hour drive or less of Boise (and most of them are free!). Take a look at our list of the Top 7 Best Idaho Hot Springs Near Boise for your next winter adventure.

1) Pine Flats Hot Springs in Lowman

Pine Flats Hot Springs in Lowman Idaho — *Photo: Wandering Van Creative*

Blink and you’d miss it, these hot springs are nestled into the hillside between the Banks/Lowman Highway and South Fork of the Payette River. The 0.6 mile out & back trail from the parking area is regularly trafficked, and best experienced in the early morning. Various pools dotted along the rocky hillside have different degrees of warmth, and the cold river is a nice reprieve. Keep climbing around the rocky terrain and you might find yourself under a remarkable waterfall and geothermal pool with picturesque views of the river.

Cost: Free

Amenities: Campground nearby

Drivetime from Boise: 1 hour 32 minutes

2) Bonneville Hot Springs in Lowman

Bonneville Hot Springs in Idaho — *Photo: Jenn Jackson*

Bonneville Hot Springs are a sweet treasure in the gorgeous mountain scenery of the Boise National Forest just outside of Lowman. Situated along the Warm Springs Creek and surrounded by blissful mountain tops, you’ll find the 0.25 mile (mostly flat) trail to be a leisurely walk from the parking lot. A charming rustic bath house sits atop a grassy knoll where the warm water begins its descent towards the creek, but don’t be fooled, this tub is a scorcher. The pools down below have been reconfigured using river rock for optimal cold/hot water flow, but are fairly established. Take this experience to the next level and bring your headlamps for a night soak. There is nothing like soaking beneath a blanket of stars in Central Idaho’s Dark Sky Reserve.

Cost: $5 fee for parking

Amenities: Campground nearby

Drivetime from Boise: 2 hours 9 minutes

3) Kirkham Hot Springs in Lowman

Kirkham Hot Springs in Idaho — *Photo: ultimatehotspringsguide.com*

Likely the most popular hot springs on this list is Kirkham. These springs flow into the South Fork of the Payette River just outside of Lowman and are a favorite destination for visitors and locals alike. The pools are spacious for big groups and the trail is a 0.2 mile stroll from the parking area. Established stairs lead down to the pools and steaming waterfalls for easier access.

Cost: $5 fee for day use

Amenities: Vault toilets

Drivetime from Boise: 1 hour 45 minutes

4) Boat Box Hot Springs in Stanley

Boat Box Hot Springs in Idaho — *Photo: redfishlake.com*

One of the more unique destinations for a soak is riverside along the Salmon River just outside of Idaho’s pride and joy, Stanley. The highlight of these springs is the above ground wooden tub, fitting 3-4 people. The water in the tub is scalding, so in true Idaho fashion, there is a bucket around to add cold river water in for the perfect temperature. Due to the small size of the parking area and tub itself, this one is best experienced on a shoulder season to avoid crowding.

Cost: Free

Amenities: N/A

Drivetime from Boise: 2 hours 44 minutes

5) Mountain Village Lodge in Stanley

Mountain Village Resort in Stanley Idaho — *Photo: mountainvillage.com*

If you do a search on Stanley, Idaho, chances are you’ve seen a picture of this spring. Imagine a rustic log building with a soaking pool inside, and double doors opening to an iconic view of the Sawtooth Mountains. Located a short walk from the lodge, guests can enjoy their own private soaking sanctuary. This spring is well-maintained and temperature-regulated for optimal comfort. It’s in high demand, and for good reason. Book your stay and make sure to reserve your time in this heavenly slice of the Sawtooths.

Cost: Complimentary for lodge guests. Reservation only.

Amenities: Covered spring, lodging nearby

Drivetime from Boise: 2 hours 44 minutes

6) The Springs in Idaho City

The Springs Private Tub in Idaho City — *Photo: thisisboise.com*

The Springs is an established resort featuring a massive communal hot pool and private tubs centered in rolling mountains and dense pines. We recommend this experience for those who are looking for a more luxurious hot spring experience very close to Boise. The communal pool is perfectly warm for all soakers and has a beautiful building with bathrooms.The private tubs are wonderful for romantic dates with poolside food service available.

Cost: $20-$50 timed soak. Reservation only.

Amenities: Large public pool. Private tubs with food service. Bathrooms.

Drivetime from Boise: 53 minutes

7) Burgdorf Hot Springs and Resort in McCall

Another popular destination for the adventurous, Burgdorf Hot Springs is only accessible by snowmobile between November-April due to high snow conditions. The resort consists of multiple log-lined pools with graveled bottoms and lodging for overnight stays. This well-maintained and established location is quite busy, so reservations are required. Come for the rustic ambiance, and stay for the remarkable scenery.

Cost: $15-20 timed soak. Reservation only.

Amenities: Communal pools. Lodging nearby.

Drivetime from Boise: 3 hours 6 minutes