Silver Creek Hot Spring
Silver Creek Hot Spring flows at 102 degrees Fahrenheit in Valley County — a comfortable soaking temperature right at the source, which is rare among Idaho's thermal springs. Also known as Silver Creek Plunge, it sits just 111 feet from the road at 4,500 feet elevation, 23 miles north of the town of Crouch.
The spring pools beside the road in a forested mountain valley where annual snowfall reaches 142 inches. The water is mildly alkaline at pH 8.9 with total dissolved solids of 197 mg/L, giving it a soft, clean feel. Ponderosa pine and mixed conifers surround the site. The access road follows a creek drainage northward from Garden Valley, and the setting is quiet but not isolated — other forest users pass through regularly.
Silver Creek Hot Spring has served as an informal community soaking spot for decades, known locally as Silver Creek Plunge. The geothermal source taps into the same Idaho Batholith system that feeds dozens of springs across Valley County. Its moderate chemistry — 54 mg/L sodium, 26 mg/L sulfate, low calcium — reflects a shallower circulation path than the hotter springs in the region.
One of the easiest hot springs to reach in the area — drive right up. Water temperature hovers around body-friendly 100-102 degrees, so no mixing or cooling is needed. Peace Valley Campground, just 3 km away, accepts reservations and offers a base for exploring additional springs in the drainage. Road conditions may deteriorate in winter and spring.
Is Silver Creek Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
The water at Silver Creek Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 8.9) with 197 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Overview Peace Valley Campground sits just 27 miles north of Garden Valley, Idaho, at an elevation of 4591 feet. The beautiful Peace Valley offers excellent hiking, motorcycle riding, fishing, and hunting opportunities. Recreation Peace Valley offers several trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and OHV use. Peace Creek Trail and Bitter Creek Trail (both motorcycle trails) begin nearby. The Rattlesnake Trail and 465 ATV Trail are in the vicinity of the campground. Peace...