Kwiskwis Hot Spring
Kwiskwis Hot Spring is a true backcountry thermal feature, requiring a multi-mile hike to reach and emerging at a scalding 156 degrees Fahrenheit at 5,670 feet elevation in the Boise National Forest. With the nearest road nearly four miles away, this is one of Idaho's most remote publicly accessible hot springs.
The spring surfaces in rugged, high-elevation terrain where subalpine fir and whitebark pine thin out against rocky slopes. The surrounding landscape is a patchwork of meadows and dense forest, with long views across the mountains of central Idaho. At this elevation, winter arrives early and lingers late, with over 134 inches of annual snowfall and average air temperatures hovering around 41 degrees. Steam pours off the superheated water and hangs in the cold mountain air.
This spring requires a serious hike of roughly four miles from the nearest road, Meadow Creek Lookout Road. The water is far too hot for direct soaking without significant natural cooling. The nearest reservable shelter is Johnson Creek Guard Station, a 1922 cabin about 23 miles away, accessible by dirt road. Plan for full backcountry self-sufficiency and check trail conditions with the Boise National Forest ranger district before heading out.
USGS data records the water at 68 degrees Celsius with a pH of 9.0 and sodium concentrations of 120 milligrams per liter. The extreme temperature differential of 115 degrees above ambient air reflects deep geothermal circulation through fractured granitic rock. This area borders the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, and the spring sits in terrain that has changed little since the region was first surveyed.
The water at Kwiskwis Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.0).
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Overview Johnson Creek Guard Station was built in 1922 and offers a charming mountain respite with modern conveniences. The cabin offers nearly everything needed for a pleasant and comfortable stay. Peak season for the cabin is typically early June through late September. It can be accessed by most vehicles via dirt and gravel roads, but trailers are not recommended.Recreation The cabin is near several trailheads into the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness. These non-motorized tr...
Kwiskwis Hot Spring sits at 5,670 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 23% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Kwiskwis Hot Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water is dangerously hot — bring water shoes and test pools carefully. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Springs Near Kwiskwis Hot Spring
More Springs Around 156°F
Alkaline Springs (pH ~9.0)
Hike 6 waterfalls near Kwiskwis Hot Spring
Looking for more outdoor adventures? Explore waterfall hikes near Kwiskwis Hot Spring, Idaho.