Russian John Hot Spring
Russian John Hot Spring sits right beside the road at 6,845 feet in the Sawtooth National Forest, delivering 100-degree water at an elevation where the annual average air temperature is just 40 degrees. That 60-degree differential means the pools steam heavily from fall through spring.
The spring pools lie within sight of the access road near Ketchum, surrounded by the high peaks of the Sawtooth Range. At nearly 7,000 feet, the landscape is subalpine meadow and conifer forest, with over 11 feet of snow burying the area each winter. The Big Wood River drainage stretches below, and the Harriman Trail passes nearby. The water has a slightly slippery feel from its 9.2 pH and sodium-rich chemistry, pooling in rock-lined basins that visitors have maintained for years.
Named for a Russian emigre who reportedly settled in the area during the late 1800s, this spring rises through Paleozoic sedimentary and volcanic rocks of the Pioneer Mountains. Its chemistry of 68 mg/L sodium and 47 mg/L sulfate with trace calcium and magnesium points to deep circulation through silicic rock. Easley Campground, five miles away on the Big Wood River, has long served as a base camp for visitors to the spring.
Russian John is one of Idaho's most accessible mountain hot springs, sitting right at roadside with no walk required. The 100-degree water is comfortable without mixing. Easley Campground, five miles south along Highway 75, is reservable and makes a good base. Snow closes the area from late fall through late spring. The spring is on Forest Service land and open to the public. Arrive early on summer weekends to avoid crowds.
Is Russian John Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
The water at Russian John Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.2).
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Overview Easley Campground is located along the beautiful Big Wood River at an elevation of 6800 feet, conveniently close to Ketchum, Idaho only 14 miles south. Visitors enjoy fishing, hiking and soaking at Easley Hot Springs.Recreation Easley is part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, where outdoor activities abound. Fly-fishing for rainbow, brown and brook trout is popular on the Big Wood River, as is float tubing. The 20-mile Harriman Trail passes through the campground, offering...