White Licks Hot Spring
White Licks Hot Spring produces 140°F water with exceptionally high mineral content: sodium at 420 mg/L, sulfate at 660 mg/L, and chloride at 150 mg/L. It sits at 4,870 feet in Adams County, just 11 meters from National Forest Development Road 186, making it one of Idaho's most mineralized and most accessible roadside thermal features.
The spring emerges in the forested mountains of west-central Idaho near the town of Council, where mixed conifer forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the surrounding slopes. Annual precipitation reaches nearly 36 inches with heavy snowfall averaging 145 inches, creating a lush mountain environment relative to the drier valleys below. The terrain is steep and creek-cut, with the spring discharging into local drainages. Lake Cascade and its surrounding recreation area lie to the east.
The name likely references the mineral deposits left by the spring's heavily mineralized water, which historically attracted wildlife. The spring has not been commercially developed despite its roadside location. USGS measurements recorded temperatures at 70.5°C, confirming the historical 140°F figure. The extremely high dissolved mineral load, particularly the sulfate and sodium concentrations, may reflect contact with evaporite deposits at depth.
The water at 140°F is dangerously hot at the source and requires significant cooling before any contact. Mineral deposits around the spring can be slippery. The Amanita Campground at Lake Cascade, 8.3 kilometers away, is reservable and offers lake access for fishing and boating. Snow closes many forest roads from November through May. Check road conditions with the Payette National Forest ranger station before visiting in shoulder seasons.
Is White Licks Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
The water at White Licks Hot Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.6). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
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Overview Amanita Campground is located next to scenic Lake Cascade in west-central Idaho. It is near the town of Donnelly, at an elevation of 4,850 feet. Boating, fishing, swimming and hiking are popular activities in this scenic region. Recreation Lake Cascade offers excellent opportunities for boating, water skiing, canoeing, windsurfing and sailing. Anglers enjoy casting for rainbow trout, coho salmon, smallmouth bass and perch. A boat ramp is located at the neighboring Rainbow Point Campg...