The northwestern metropolitan city provides visitors and residents with a great location, a spectacular climate, and an endless amount of outdoor activities nearby. One of the most popular and unique experiences Boise, Idaho provides is its many hot springs.
Within the state itself, Idaho has an estimated 130 different hot spring locations, more than any other state in the country. Over 25 of those are within relatively quick driving distance from the state’s capital! It makes a perfect basecamp year-round for adventure, including ski areas close to Boise and camping nearby.
The Springs – 37 mi | 50 min
Located just fifty-one miles and two hours outside of Boise, Idaho, The Springs has been a fan favorite for years. This luxurious hot spring is used for retreats, healings, and for those who want a high-class soaking experience.
The springs are open from Friday-Sunday on a reservation only basis, so make sure to book ahead of time. You can enjoy private tubs, a stunning and scenic backdrop, and a comfortable soak at these springs. You will most definitely want to take advantage of the overnight stays offered after getting a taste of this high-end location.
3742 ID-21, Idaho City, ID 83631 | 208-392-9500 | thespringsid.com
Givens Hot Springs – 47 mi | 1 hr
Givens Hot Springs is one of the most easily accessible springs from Boise, Idaho. The historic area has been in use for over 135 years and is located right off the Oregon trail, forty-six miles (a little under an hour), outside of what is now known to be the state’s capital. The sacred and healing water stays at an average temperature of 98-99 degrees year-round making it a great place to de-stress and enjoy the surrounding nature.
The springs are open daily from noon-9 PM and are available without reservations. You can walk in and enjoy the fun without worry.
11309 State Highway 78, Melba, ID 83641 | 208-495-2000 | givenshotsprings.com
Rocky Canyon Hot Springs – 63 mi | 1.5 hr
This is a short one and a half hour drive from Boise. And I can guarantee the drive will fly by. The road that takes you from Boise to the springs is nestled between mountains and forests, making it a scenic and stunning cruise. There are plenty of options to pull off and soak in some of the beauty before heading into the water.
Rocky Canyon Hot Springs is heavily trafficked year round. The spring lies on the far side of the Middle Fork Payette River, and despite being only a short .1 miles away from the road, it’s quiet, calming, and has plenty of pockets to set up camp for the day.
The many pools are free to access, and range from warm to steaming hot. The hottest pools will take a bit more effort to get to, as you’ll have to scale the river and a few of the other pools to reach the top.
For those that are prepared, it’s definitely worth it. The further up you go, the more secluded you will be. It’s perfect for those who want a bit more privacy and to feel as if they are in a world of their own.
Middlefork Rd, Garden Valley, ID
Pine Flats Hot Springs – 69 mi | 1.5 hr
Pine Flats Hot Springs is surely one of the most unique options. It’s located just outside the town of Lowan, and about an hour and a half from Boise. The geothermal hot springs lie right underneath a waterfall, making it unlike most in the area.
The jaw dropping spot boasts both a natural and a manmade pool. This makes for a perfect soak for anyone with pets or young kiddos. The separate constructed area has a tarp, is easier to access, and rocks that enclave the pool. For those who want a more holistic experience, you can climb further up to reach the untouched spring.
Banks Lowman Rd, Lowan, ID
Kirkham Hot Springs – 78 mi | 1.75 hr
Next up on the list is arguably one of Idaho’s most popular hot springs. Kirkham Hot Spring is a little under two hours from Boise, and it’s a must visit. The pools stay a steady 95-110 degrees Fahrenheit year round, so you won’t have to worry about the weather too much. In addition, this natural wonder is open for use 7am to 9pm daily and is visited by friends, families, and solo travelers religiously.
The area where Kirkham is located has a reasonable entry fee per vehicle, making it a budget friendly spring. You can gain access by strolling down a short trail right the south fork of the famous Payette River. For those who aren’t game to spend the day soaking in the natural baths, Boise National Forest (where the springs is located), has a ton of different waterfalls, hikes, and rocks to explore. It’s a great place for a quick day trip from the city.
7658 ID-21, Lowman, ID | fs.usda.gov/…
Haven Hot Springs Pool – 78 mi | 1.75 hr
Just 20 minutes outside of Boise is Haven Hot Springs and pool. This beautifully set up hot springs offers private bookings, allowing those who choose to invest in the experience an intimate and relaxing time. Although it doesn’t feel as “natural” as some of the less industrialized springs, it’s the perfect spot for anyone who likes a higher end experience without all the fuss.
Haven Hot Springs and pool opened up in 1951, making it a long time favorite among both locals and visitors alike. The fresh mineral water, scenic location, and perfectly plated pool gives the hot springs a retreat-like feel and will surely make it difficult to leave.
Private soak reservations are available at reasonable rates per person and give groups access to an hour of uninterrupted fun. In addition, those who choose to stay at the springs motel overnight get a half priced discount on reservations. It’s a win-win!
7653 ID-21, Lowman, ID | 208-259-3344 | havenhotsprings.com
Trinity Hot Springs – 100 mi | 1.75 hr
To get from Boise, Idaho to Trinity Hot Springs requires quite a bit of mileage to be covered. The springs are located one hundred miles outside of the city, but surprisingly can be reached within under two hours.
This beautiful destination has emerald green water, mountain side views, and an attached resort. It’s a true paradise and a must visit for all. The pool temperatures do fluctuate, but tend to stay above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, so you won’t have to worry too much about being cold in the mountain-based oasis. If you’re staying for a while, ensure to check out the many retreats and classes the resort offers. It’s an all-in-one hot spring’s location.
1020 N Warm Spring Dr, Pine, ID 83647 | 208-653-2123 | trinityhotsprings.club
Loftus Hot Springs – 51 mi | 2.5 hr
Much like many of the other hot springs near Idaho, Loftus Hot Springs is located off of the Boise River two and a half hours outside of the city. The two pools are split by a bit of sand and rock, and the top pool is surrounded by mortar. This beautiful pool is the best to visit in the morning when the early morning light illuminates the water into a turquoise green color.
For those of you who visit the pools, be wary of poison ivy. The area surrounding the water is infested with poison ivy plants on occasion, and you do not want to be leaving with a rash. Trust me…it’s no fun! It can easily be avoided, and shouldn’t deter you from visiting this wonderful spring!
Middle Fork Boise River Rd, Mountain Home, ID
Pine Burl Hot Springs – 77 mi | 2.5 hr
For those of you who don’t mind a bit of extra drive time, Pine Burl Hot Springs is a must see. The picturesque hot springs are a little under three hours outside of Boise…and will leave you feeling like you’re in a movie. The springs are definitely worth the drive and surely won’t disappoint, whether you’re a nature lover or a bit less adventurous.
The springs are at the end of a 4.2 mile out and back trail, making it a bit more of a trek to get to than other locations. There is an option to spend the night and camp at one of the few campsites. In addition, the pool allows users to partially control the water temperature.
If you’re visiting in the cold winter months, adjust the water flow more towards the heat…and if you’re visiting in the summer, switch it to cold! You simply can’t beat this beautiful and rewarding experience.
Cascade, ID 83611
Granite Creek Hot Springs – 76 mi | 3 hr
Last but not least is Granite Creek Hot Springs. It’ll take about three hours to reach if you’re staying in the downtown Boise area, but it’s worth the extra effort. This seasonal rockwalled spring is surrounded by soaring tree tops and has a gorgeous pebbled bottom. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see straight through the clear water.
The best time to visit this amazing oasis is in the late summer months (July through November) when the roads won’t be closed. There’s plenty of parking spots and open campsites for those who want an extended stay. It’s one of my personal favorite spots and highly recommended by locals.
Middle Fork Boise River Rd, Atlanta, ID 83716
Whichever hot spring catches your eye, you are sure to have a good time. Boise truly does have some of the best and most serene nature around. Be sure to plan and pack ahead of time so that you’re able to simply soak, relax, and enjoy all that this wonderful state has to offer.