When your friends and family visit the Treasure Valley for the holidays, you want to show them the real Idaho—not just the developed attractions. That means skipping the overpriced resorts and taking them directly to the heart of the Gem State's geothermal bounty.
With over 130 soakable hot springs—more than any other state in the nation—Idaho offers countless opportunities for a memorable, relaxing, and totally free winter escape.
Here at Totally Boise, we believe in keeping our public lands pristine and accessible. Why pay for a hot springs experience when a natural, untouched gem awaits in our National Forest?
Here is your guide to showing your holiday guests the best of Idaho’s hot springs while adhering to the most crucial rule: Leave it better than you found it.
Our Top 4 Free Hot Springs for Hosting Visitors
These three popular, natural hot springs near the Treasure Valley offer incredible views and the perfect winter soak—all with no admission fee (though some require a small day-use parking fee).
1. Kirkham Hot Springs - (Lowman Area)
Kirkham is Idaho’s most famous natural spring for a reason. It’s an accessible wonderland your visitors won't forget.
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The Experience: Located along the South Fork of the Payette River, Kirkham features a series of terraced rock pools leading down to the river, including several small steaming waterfalls cascading over rocks. The unique setting makes for stunning photos and incredible relaxation, especially with snow on the ground.
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Need to Know: The main access point requires a small walk down a staircase (be careful, as rocks can be slick!). There is typically a $5 day-use fee per vehicle for parking outside the gate, but the pools themselves are free. Check current conditions before heading out, as the campground is often closed to overnight camping during the winter.
Drive Time from Boise: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
2. Trail Creek Hot Springs - (Cascade Area)
A short hike and a narrow bridge away from relaxation and recreation, Trail Creek Hot Springs is located outside Cascade, ID.
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The Experience: Surrounded by trees and boulders, the hot spring is heated through volunteer-built PVC piping, which gives soakers the ability to adjust the temperature.
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Need To Know: Known as a hot spring favorite in Idaho, it may be wise to visit this hot spring during slower weekdays or early in the morning.
Drive Time from Boise: Roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes
3. Pine Flats Hot Springs - (Lowman Area)
A slightly more rugged and equally beautiful alternative that highlights the raw beauty of the Boise National Forest.
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The Experience: A short, steep hike from the parking area leads you down to rock-walled pools nestled along the Payette River. The main draw here is the geothermal waterfall cascading into a rock-walled pool, creating a hot, refreshing shower. The pools’ temperatures vary widely depending on river level and proximity to the source.
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Need to Know: Accessibility can be tricky in winter due to ice and high river levels during spring runoff. The trailhead is located near the Pine Flats Campground (which is closed for camping in winter). This spot is a quintessential Idaho adventure, but footwear with good traction is essential.
Drive Time from Boise: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
4. Bonneville Hot Springs - Natural
A more remote option that rewards the committed adventurer with rustic charm and unique features.
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The Experience: After a moderate hike off Highway 21, you'll find multiple soaking pools, including one very unique feature: a small, rustic indoor soaking shack housing a bathtub fed by a hot spring pipe. This protected indoor option can be a lifesaver on an especially cold winter day.
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Need to Know: The trailhead and Forest Service Roads leading to Bonneville can be snowbound or impassable from late fall through early spring, so a high-clearance, 4x4 vehicle is usually required. Always check the Boise National Forest road reports before committing to this trip, especially with out-of-town guests.
Drive Time from Boise: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Soaking in geothermal water has a host of health benefits that help visitors rejuvenate and relax. Learn more about the benefits of hot springs here:
Whether you are a seasoned hot springer or new to exploring, it's important always to be prepared and to research the hot spring before going. From the natural health benefits to the backcountry scenic views, hot springs may be one of the most alluring and breathtaking features Idaho has to offer.
The Ethos: Keep Our Natural Pools Free and Pristine
The privilege of soaking in Idaho’s undeveloped hot springs comes with a responsibility to protect them for future generations. These aren't resorts—they're pieces of wilderness.
Before you go, commit to these essentials:
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Pack It In, Pack It Out: Everything you bring, including trash, food wrappers, and anything else, must leave with you. Never leave trash, cigarette butts, or clothing behind.
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Leave No Trace (LNT): Stay on designated trails. Do not attempt to build new pools, disturb natural features, or damage the delicate ecosystems surrounding the springs.
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Respect the Temperature: Never use soap, shampoo, or other chemicals in the pools, as this pollutes the natural water. Use the running river water to cool down and adjust temperatures if needed.
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Know the Rules: Be aware that clothing is often optional at remote natural springs. Respect the space and the choices of others.
The Alternative: Choose Free Over Fee
While we recognize that places like The Springs at Idaho City or Miracle Hot Springs offer convenient, developed pools and amenities, we encourage our community to utilize the beautiful natural resources we already own. There’s no need to pay for a geothermal soak when Idaho offers so many world-class natural hot springs for free. Keep your money local by simply buying gas and snacks in nearby towns, and spend your holiday budget on downtown Boise dining instead.
Show your visiting friends and family the true, wild, and generous spirit of the Gem State by showing them how to enjoy Idaho's beauty responsibly and for free!