Salmon, ID
Goldbug Hot Springs
A chain of six waterfall-fed rock pools strung along Warm Spring Creek in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, reached by a steep two-mile hike gaining 1,350 feet. The…
Central Idaho mountains · Lowman, ID
Cliffside and riverside pools tucked below the Banks–Lowman Highway beside the Payette River, reached by a short but rocky descent from Pine Flats Campground. An iconic geothermal waterfall feeds one of the hotter basins, with cooler soaking toward the river edge. Day-use-friendly and pet-welcome, with a 24-site campground steps away for overnighters.
For day-use admission, popular resorts sell out on weekends — if the official site offers reservations, book ahead. Weekday visits are usually easier as walk-ins.
Many developed springs welcome families, but age rules, family hours, and adults-only pools vary by property. Check the official site for the current policy before visiting with children.
Start with 15–20 minutes, then cool off and hydrate before going back in. Hot mineral water dehydrates you faster than you expect — drink water between soaks and don't push through dizziness.
Keep exploring
Salmon, ID
A chain of six waterfall-fed rock pools strung along Warm Spring Creek in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, reached by a steep two-mile hike gaining 1,350 feet. The…
Lowman, ID
Dozens of steaming rock pools and small waterfalls cascade down a forested hillside into the South Fork Payette River in the Boise National Forest. Temperatures span…
Lowell, ID
Three natural pools sit along Warm Springs Creek in the Clearwater National Forest, a gentle 1.4-mile hike from the Warm Springs Park bridge trailhead on Highway 12.…