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Downata Hot Springs
Downata Hot Springs
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Unknown
Lava Hot Springs Slide
Lava Hot Springs Slide
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Lava Hot Springs Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs
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Lava Hot Springs Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs
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Boise National Forest
Sacajawea Hot Springs
Sacajawea Hot Springs
By Perry Mack
Idaho has the highest number of ‘soakable’ – that means useable hot springs in the USA – at 130 out of 340. They range from easy to access ‘modern’ pools with all the amenities to multiday hike-in ‘untouched’ natural springs.
Sacajawea Hot Springs is typical one of the natural hot springs on public lands – in this case, in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Rustic camping is available at Grandjean Campground. The natural pools are free but keep in mind that access is often seasonal and the pools are unreliable – either too hot, too cold or submerged due to spring runoff.
Lava Hot Springs in southeastern Idaho is probably the most famous hot springs in the state. Water circulates through the pools and back to the Portneuf River keeping the pools fresh with an average temperature of 40 °C degrees summer and winter - www.lavahotsprings.com.
Downata Hot Springs in the nearby city of Downey has hot pools for swimming, soaking, water slides, spa services and a picnic area making it a great family getaway spot - www.downatahotsprings.com.
Near the historic ghost town of Warren are the Burgdorff Hot Springs. Established in 1870, these two immense, sandy bottom pools surrounded by the serene Payette National Forest - www.burgdorfhotsprings.com.
Adults and couples love Miracle Hot Springs where professional masseuses are available for hire and there are 19 private soaking rooms in addition to the public outdoor pools - www.mhsprings.com.
Six mineral rich pools await you at Gold Fork Hot Springs, which are located between McCall and Boise. Make sure you bring cash, as they don’t accept debit or credit cards - www.goldforkhotsprings.com.
There’s day camping and historic cabins to rent at Givens Hot Springs, which makes it a great family-friendly getaway. In addition to the naturally heated pool, you’re close to the Snake River, which provides excellent outdoor adventures including fishing, rafting and hiking - www.givenshotsprings.com.
For further information on the many more public and private hot springs, visit www.idahohotsprings.com