Weir Creek Hot Springs is a rural geothermal pool area with one larger pool and a couple of smaller ones. It’s located in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest in northern Idaho, about an hour and 20 minutes drive northeast of Kooskia.
The soaking areas have gravel bottoms and are defined by natural rocks to form a wall.
Natural Hot Springs Pools
The largest of the hot springs pools is perched up on a ledge and overlooks a stream below and the smaller pools. About ten people can sit comfortably in the big pool, and maybe two or three in each of the smaller ones. The creek is also warm and shallow, so it can be fun to splash around while waiting for a turn in one of the other baths.
Forestry and mountain views surround the pool, allowing soakers to unwind in total wilderness and refreshing open air. The season will determine the temperature of the collections, but on average, they are about 100-105℉. There’s no fee to enter the hot springs area, and it’s clothing optional, but know that it’s not uncommon to run into others there.
Pets on leashes are allowed near the water but refrain from allowing your pup to get in the springs. The pools are open year-round, but if you decide to visit in the winter, there’s a good probability that you’ll be walking in the snow.
During the summer, the springs see a lot of traffic from locals and vacationers. Regardless of the time of year, don’t forget to stay hydrated, bring your towel, and leave no trash behind.
Camping
There are a few primitive camping options near the trailhead, but since the area sees a lot of visitors, don’t expect much privacy. Some campers also choose to stay the night in their cars inside the parking lot.
Some rural sites are along the nearby roads, but the Colgate Campground and Jerry Johnson Campground are just a few miles east of the springs. Both locations are no-frills but have fantastic access to hiking opportunities and scenery.
Getting There
If traveling from Missoula, Montana, Weir Creek Hot Springs is only about 75 miles away and takes about 90 minutes to reach by car. The trailhead and parking lot are almost directly off the US-12 W and easy to access, especially coming from Montana.
There is parking at the Weir Creek Trailhead, and the trek to the springs is only 0.7 miles each way and a 15-minute walk. The path is steep at parts, so mind your footing, especially on rainy or snowy days. Some visitors find that using a walking stick is an excellent assistant on this short trail.
Details
Address: Clearwater National Forest, approximately Mile Post 143, Idaho 83539
Season: Year-round
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs – Kooskia, Idaho