Along the banks of the Payette River near Grandjean and Lowman, Idaho, are the free and pure thermal waters known as Sacajawea Hot Springs. The Sacajawea River runs in the middle of the sand and rock of the hot springs, and the water levels depend highly on the spring runoff.
This rural bathing location is roughly 40 miles from Stanley and 101 miles from Boise, making it a doable day trip from both cities.
Natural Hot Springs
The hot springs are less than a mile from the Sawtooth Lodge and can be reached right from Grandjean Road. Pools are close to the parking lot, which is regularly full of vehicles.
The natural baths along the river were constructed by past tourists and volunteers who used rock walls to channel the river’s cooler water into the hot springs. Like many other riverside springs, this one gets submerged during the spring thaw, so be sure to include that in your plans.
Former visitors with their own thermometers clocked the source temperature at 149℉, which is too hot to come in contact with. Make sure to use one of the defined pools on the river banks. Visitors coming with their dogs must keep them leashed and out of the water.
Nearby Camping
Camping right at the hot springs is not permitted, but the Sawtooth Lodge (affiliate link) is just feet away and offers cabins, campsites, and RV spots. In addition, the Grandjean Campground is just two miles southeast and is a beautifully maintained area for spending the night.
Details
Address: Grandjean Road, Lowman, Idaho 83637
Season: Summer to fall is ideal; in winter, the forest roads are closed and only open to skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling
Warm Lake Lodge – Cascade, Idaho