Boiling Springs
Boiling Springs erupts at 185 degrees Fahrenheit right next to a reservable Forest Service cabin in the Boise National Forest, making it one of Idaho's most accessible high-temperature thermal features. USGS measurements confirm the source at 85 degrees Celsius. Soaking pools downstream cool the water to bathable temperatures, drawing visitors who combine a cabin stay with a genuine hot spring experience.
The spring surfaces at 4,020 feet elevation along the Middle Fork of the Payette River drainage in Valley County. Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir shade the area, and the river corridor creates a lush, narrow valley. Annual snowfall exceeds 142 inches, but the cabin and springs draw visitors year-round. Steam drifts from the source pool in cold weather, and mineral deposits color the rocks around the outflow. The air smells faintly of sulfur where the water first emerges.
Boiling Springs sits within the Idaho Batholith, where deep faults channel water to extreme depths before it returns superheated to the surface. Water chemistry shows high sodium at 74 mg/L with almost no calcium or magnesium, indicating prolonged contact with granitic rock at depth. The alkaline pH of 8.9 and low total dissolved solids of 260 mg/L point to a clean, deep reservoir rather than shallow volcanic heating.
Boiling Springs Cabin is reservable through Recreation.gov and sits just 300 feet from the springs. The cabin provides basic shelter but guests must bring water and supplies. The source water is dangerously hot at 185 degrees, so use only the cooled downstream soaking areas. Access roads may close in winter. Check with the Boise National Forest for current conditions.
Is Boiling Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
The water at Boiling Springs is alkaline (pH 8.9) with 260 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Overview The cabin area is open to the general public.Boiling Springs Cabin is a popular destination for those who enjoy soaking in mineral hot springs that are adjacent to the cabin. Other hot springs are within the vicinity as well. Guests who stay here also have a variety of other recreational activities to enjoy, such as fishing, hiking, and off-road motor vehicle riding. The cabin offers many conveniences, but guests should bring some supplies like water and equipment to ensure a comfort...