Idaho is know for steaming hot springs that are found in many areas throughout the state. After our backpacking trip to Sawtooth Lake I thought that a relaxing hike to Mother Nature’s hot tubs would be great to ease our muscles and see another side of the state’s beauty.
I’m hesitant to share this hidden gem in the mountains of northern Idaho, so in an effort to keep the natural beauty of this place safe I ask that anyone who chooses to visit please leave no trace. Pack out all garbage and leave it just as gorgeous as you find it so that others can enjoy it as well!
The hike up to Weir Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep on a narrow and uneven hill traverse. I imagine that it would be quite slippery requiring traction in the winter months. That being said it is less than a half mile hike into the single steamy pool perched above the chilly stream.
The water was quite hot, about the temperature of a hot tub, which surprised me because most of the natural hot springs I’ve been to in the past have been luke warm at best. The water in the small pool was crystal clear running in from a small stream above. We were lucky to be the only ones at the spring on this warm summer day, but I imagine in the chilly autumn and winter months it is quite busy as a result of the short hike in.
I monitored Lucy carefully while we were near the pool because I didn’t want her to be burned by the hot water. She curiously dipped a few toes into the pool before retreating for a nap in the shade while I sat in the water. I was amazed by the views of the creek below and my muscles had a much needed chance to relax after all of the backpacking we had done the weekend before. It was a much needed natural spa day and after about an hour of hopping in and out of the pool, we retreated back to the car.
These springs were unlike any I had ever experienced in the past. The warm water was odorless and relaxing on my tight muscles. It was clean and serene, with no other visitors at the time making for a very peaceful visit. If you get a chance to go to these springs please carry out all of your trash and leave it better than you found it!
Hi! I'm Lexi and this is my pup Lucy. This is our hiking blog where I write all about our adventures! Our goal is to empower you with the tools and advice you need to spend more time in nature. Lucy and I have tested lots of gear, hiked many trails around the world, and learned more about ourselves than we could have ever imagined. Join us as we our continue exploring the backcountry and beyond! 
Thank you for including me on your posts. It is greatly appreciated. Northern California has a number of springs that are similar to what you described. Some have swimming pools without chlorine or other chemicals. There are extremely hot, mild and very cold areas. There are small rooms you can stay at. I enjoyed the ability to cook our food. They have all the utensils, plates, etc.
They have many programs you can participate in meditation, yoga, breathing techniques and different types of messages. Some places are clothing optional and you have to take a shower before you partake. This has to do with sunscreen. If you search for hotsprings in Mendocino County, CA you will get the less popular springs. Napa Valley can be crowded.
Wow that sounds amazing! I’ll have to look into them! Thank you!