Idaho’s mountains hide a spectacular secret; natural hot springs that bubble up from deep within the earth. September offers the perfect backdrop for exploring these thermal wonders, when summer crowds thin out and the crisp fall air creates magical steam rising from warm waters.
Pack your swimsuit, grab a towel, and hit the road to discover these nine remarkable Idaho hot springs that transform an ordinary road trip into an unforgettable autumn adventure.
1. Pine Flats Hot Springs: Overlook Pools with River Views
Perched dramatically on a cliff edge above the South Fork of the Payette River, Pine Flats offers perhaps Idaho’s most spectacular soaking backdrop. The main attraction is a natural stone pool with a small waterfall of hot mineral water cascading over the edge, creating a natural hot shower for brave soakers.
Located 20 miles east of Banks off the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway, accessing these springs requires a moderate half-mile hike down from the campground. September’s cooler river levels make reaching the springs easier than during spring runoff, when high water can submerge some pools.
Autumn brings golden light that transforms the river canyon into a photographer’s dream, especially in late afternoon. The pools vary from 100-105°F with space for about 6-8 people in the main area. For adventurous soakers, smaller, hotter pools can be found by exploring carefully upstream from the main soaking area.
2. Kirkham Hot Springs: Steaming Pools Along the Payette River
Cascading down a hillside into the Payette River, Kirkham Hot Springs creates a series of natural thermal pools with varying temperatures. The steaming waters form shallow terraced pools perfect for soaking while admiring the surrounding forest beginning to show hints of autumn gold.
Located just off Highway 21 near Lowman, this accessible spot requires just a short walk down wooden stairs from the parking area. The proximity to the river allows adventurous soakers to alternate between hot mineral water and refreshing river dips.
September visits reward travelers with weekday solitude and comfortable ambient temperatures around 70°F. Bring water shoes for navigating the rocky terrain and arrive early to claim your favorite pool. The $5 day-use fee is a small price for this natural spa experience.
3. Burgdorf Hot Springs: Rustic Cabins and Mountain Views
Step back in time at this historic retreat established in 1870, where rustic log cabins surround a large main pool fed by natural mineral springs. The main soaking area maintains a consistent 100°F temperature year-round, while two smaller, hotter pools nearby offer more intense thermal experiences.
Located 30 miles north of McCall on a gravel road, Burgdorf becomes especially magical in September when surrounding meadows take on golden hues and evenings bring crisp mountain air. The retreat operates without electricity, using propane lights and wood stoves to create an authentic pioneer atmosphere.
Day visitors can soak for $10, while overnight guests enjoy 24-hour access to the springs. The cabins book quickly for September weekends when temperatures create perfect soaking conditions. Bring your own food, as there are no dining facilities, and prepare for a digital detox with no cell service.
4. Sunbeam Hot Springs: Riverside Relaxation Near Stanley
Where hot spring water meets the Salmon River, nature has created the perfect temperature control system for soakers. Sunbeam offers a unique experience where visitors can adjust their soaking temperature by moving closer to or further from the cold river water mixing with the hot spring source.
Located right alongside Highway 75 about 15 miles southeast of Stanley, this accessible spot features both a constructed concrete soaking tub and natural riverside pools. The historic bathhouse structure standing nearby serves as a reminder of the area’s popularity since the early 1900s.
September brings spectacular stargazing opportunities in this area known for its dark skies. The surrounding Sawtooth Mountains often receive their first dusting of snow, creating a stunning backdrop for your soak. Morning visits often reward early risers with elk sightings along the river and mist rising dramatically from the thermal waters.
5. Trail Creek Hot Springs: Remote Pools Surrounded by Pines
Crafted by dedicated soakers over decades, Trail Creek’s pools feature ingenious rock and log construction that allows visitors to regulate water temperature. Cold creek water flows through adjustable pipes into two main pools, creating the perfect personalized soaking experience among towering pines.
Located about 20 miles north of Cascade off Warm Lake Road, reaching this hidden gem requires navigating a dirt Forest Service road followed by a short but steep quarter-mile hike. The effort keeps crowds minimal, especially during September weekdays when you might have these pristine pools entirely to yourself.
Fall temperatures transform the surrounding forest into a fragrant paradise as pine needles warm in the afternoon sun. Bring appropriate footwear for the hike down, pack out everything you bring in, and consider a weekday visit to maximize solitude. The pools comfortably fit about 6-8 people, making this perfect for small groups.
6. Goldbug Hot Springs: A Rewarding Hike to Natural Soaks
Hidden in the Salmon-Challis National Forest awaits a thermal oasis worth every step of the two-mile trail leading there. Goldbug’s collection of pools cling dramatically to a steep mountainside, creating a natural infinity-edge experience with panoramic valley views that September’s clear skies enhance perfectly.
The moderate hike gains about 1,350 feet in elevation, crossing a wooden footbridge and traversing sage-covered hillsides before entering a forested canyon. Your efforts culminate at multiple pools ranging from 100-110°F, where smooth rock formations create natural seating and small waterfalls connect the terraced basins.
Fall brings golden aspen trees along the trail and fewer fellow hikers compared to summer months. Pack plenty of water for the hike, bring a flashlight if staying until sunset, and remember this is a pack-in, pack-out location with no facilities.
7. Bonneville Hot Springs: Family-Friendly Stop in the Sawtooths
Tucked away in the Boise National Forest lies a developed hot spring that combines natural beauty with convenient amenities. The large main pool, roughly the size of a backyard swimming pool, maintains a comfortable 105°F temperature perfect for extended soaking sessions while gazing at surrounding forest scenery.
Just a few miles north of Lowman on Highway 21, Bonneville welcomes visitors with a concrete pool, changing facilities, and even picnic tables for post-soak snacks. The springs sit alongside the South Fork of the Payette River, providing soothing background sounds and cooling options between soaks.
September’s mild temperatures and reduced visitor numbers make this an ideal family stop. The spacious pool accommodates multiple groups without feeling crowded. A modest $5 fee supports the site’s maintenance, ensuring these historic springs (discovered in the 1860s) remain accessible for generations to come.
8. Miracle and Banbury Hot Springs: Twin Retreats Along the Snake River
Two exceptional developed hot spring facilities sit just minutes apart near Buhl in southern Idaho’s Snake River Canyon. Miracle Hot Springs features private soaking rooms alongside outdoor pools ranging from 100-104°F, while Banbury offers larger communal pools and riverside camping with palm trees creating an unexpected oasis atmosphere.
Both locations harness mineral-rich water naturally heated to over 130°F before being cooled to safe soaking temperatures. The therapeutic waters contain high levels of calcium, magnesium and silica, minerals known for their skin-softening properties and muscle-relaxing benefits.
September brings pleasant 75-80°F daytime temperatures to this lower-elevation region, with evenings cool enough to make the springs especially enjoyable. Both facilities offer reasonable day-use rates around $10, with discounts for seniors and children. Consider visiting mid-week to avoid weekend crowds from nearby Twin Falls.
9. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs: A Scenic Forest Hike to Warm Pools
Nestled deep within the Clearwater National Forest, these beloved natural pools require a one-mile hike that crosses a picturesque footbridge over the Lochsa River. The trail winds through ancient cedar groves before revealing several natural hot spring pools scattered along Warm Springs Creek, each offering different temperatures and settings.
The lower pools provide the most spacious soaking options, comfortably fitting 8-10 people with temperatures around 100-103°F. Mid-September typically sees fewer visitors than summer months, especially on weekdays when you might find yourself alone with just the sounds of the forest and flowing water.
Fall brings spectacular color transformations to the surrounding wilderness. The pools remain clothing-optional as they have been for generations, though more visitors are choosing swimwear in recent years. Pack a water filter rather than carrying heavy bottles, and remember to bring a trash bag for packing out all items.
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