Slate Creek Hot Spring
Slate Creek Hot Spring surfaces at 122 degrees Fahrenheit at 7,020 feet in the Challis National Forest — one of the highest-elevation accessible thermal springs in Idaho. USGS analysis shows 352 mg/L total dissolved solids, 81 mg/L sulfate, and 270 micrograms per liter of iron, giving the water a distinct mineral signature.
A short walk of roughly a quarter mile from the nearest forest road leads to the spring, which emerges in high mountain terrain where average annual air temperature is just 37 degrees. Custer County's rugged landscape stretches in every direction — bare ridgelines, scattered subalpine fir, and wide sky. The iron-bearing water stains surrounding rock in rust and ochre tones. Over 100 inches of snow falls here annually, and the spring steams steadily through the cold months.
Access requires a short walk from the road, making this more accessible than many backcountry springs despite its high elevation. Water at the source needs cooling before contact. Pole Flat Campground is 17 km away with vault toilets and drinking water, no reservations needed. The iron content may stain clothing and skin temporarily. Road access is typically open July through September.
The spring rises along fault lines in the Challis Volcanic Group, where ancient volcanic activity created fractured pathways for deep groundwater circulation. The elevated sulfate and iron concentrations distinguish it from the cleaner sodium-dominant springs elsewhere in central Idaho, suggesting contact with mineralized volcanic deposits. The area's mining history, visible in nearby ghost towns, followed the same mineral-rich geology.
The water at Slate Creek Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 8.8) with 352 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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This campground is away from the main road and up the hill overlooking the river and the dredge ponds. Campsites include picnic tables tent pads fire rings with cooking grills. Campground amenities include a vault toilet and drinking water. Sites accommodate trailers and motorhomes up to 32 feet long.
Slate Creek Hot Spring sits at 7,020 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 28% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Slate Creek Hot Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water runs hot, so extra hydration is key. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
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