Natural hot springs in Idaho are one of the state’s natural beauties. Some of the best natural hot springs in Idaho are surrounded by rich habitats and thousands of acres of protected wilderness. This comes as no secret and as a result, sometimes you find yourself sitting at a natural hot spring in Idaho, soaking in a crowd of people. However, the good news is that Idaho River Adventures guides know where the best hot springs in Idaho are found, alongside the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. In other words, add natural hot springs to the list of reasons to explore Idaho on a raft. These hot springs are unique, remote, and primarily trafficked by Idaho River Adventures guides and guests. Above all, the best part is sharing the springs with those who are on the same lifetime adventure.
Book an Idaho rafting trip with Idaho River Adventures, and soak in the best hot springs in Idaho with those you choose to adventure with.
Here are 2021's 5 Best Hot Springs in Idaho:
- Trail Flat Hot Spring
- Sheepeater Hot Springs
- Sunflower Hot Springs
- Loon Creek Hot Springs
- Hospital Bar Hot Springs
1. Trail Flat Hot Spring
This natural hot spring is reached after only 7.3 miles of paddling and is a great spot to stop, eat lunch, and enjoy an afternoon soak. The spring is large enough to comfortably fit 10 or more and the water is crystal clear. My favorite thing about this hot spring is its proximity to the river. There is something about having the river right next to you that adds to the relaxing atmosphere.
2. Sheepeater Hot Springs
Sheepeater Hot Springs is a favorite spot for IRA guide, Greg Cairns. During the early season, Sheepeater is often near the first night camp. It is a short and captivating hike making arriving at the remote hot springs, only frequented by resident deer, worth it. Rumor has it that goats occasionally stop for a soak.
3. Sunflower Hotsprings
Sunflower Hot spring is a favorite among guests. The spring is located a short distance above the river however, it's the perfect distance to allow a great aerial view of the river. Below the pool is a natural hot spring waterfall that flows off the cliff that many enjoy standing under. The spring itself is not very large. Comfortably allowing 3-4 people at a time.
4. Loon Creek Hot Springs
Loon Creek is the largest hot spring on the Middle Fork. This spring is located a mile up Loon Creek and the scenic hike itself is worth it. The deep thermal pool is just a bonus.
5. Hospital Bar Hot Springs
Hospital Bar Hot Springs is the final hot spring on the Middle Fork and though the spring itself can only hold 2-3 people, it’s the perfect place to stop and get a quick soak in. As always, the scenic view is unique, and just a fragment of the beautiful scenery that surrounds it.
What natural hot spring do you want to visit? Let Idaho River Adventures take you there. Idaho River Adventures offers a variety of all-inclusive rafting trips on the Lower Salmon and Middle Fork of the Salmon River. Every trip Idaho River Adventure offers has an emphasis on safety and customer satisfaction. We hope you will join us for a soak!
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Emily Knittel
Emily Knittel is a Montana based writer, mountain biker, and self-proclaimed professional hype girl. With a degree in Journalism, and an unshakable love for the outdoors, Emily writes to encourage a life of whimsy and adventure.
