Bear Lake Hot Springs

## Overview Bear Lake Hot Springs is a geothermal hot spring destination located along the northern shore of Bear Lake, near the small town of St. Charles in southeastern Idaho. Situated at approximately 42.24°N, 111.28°W, the springs sit in the Bear Lake Valley — a region long celebrated for its stunning turquoise lake, sometimes called the "Caribbean of the Rockies." The area's geothermal activity is linked to the Bear Lake fault system, which allows heated groundwater to rise to the surface along the valley's margins. Bear Lake Hot Springs has been a popular soaking and recreation spot for well over a century. The resort-style facility at this location has historically offered warm-water swimming pools fed by the natural hot spring water, drawing visitors from across southeastern Idaho and northern Utah. The geothermally heated water has been reported to maintain comfortably warm temperatures year-round, making it a destination in both summer and winter months. The springs are part of a broader cluster of geothermal features found along the Bear Lake corridor, a testament to the region's active geology. Bear Lake itself occupies a half-graben basin formed by tectonic extension, and the hot springs emerge where deep-circulating groundwater is heated by the earth's geothermal gradient before rising along fault lines to the surface. ## Directions 1. From the town of St. Charles, Idaho, head north on **US-89**. 2. Turn east (right) onto **N Beach Road** (also sometimes referred to as North Beach Road or Bear Lake North Beach Road). 3. Follow N Beach Road along the northern shore of Bear Lake. 4. Bear Lake Hot Springs is located at **6668 N Beach Road, St. Charles, ID 83272**, on the lake side of the road. 5. Watch for signage indicating the hot springs facility. Parking is available on-site. *GPS Coordinates: 42.2399, -111.2845* ## What to Expect Visitors to Bear Lake Hot Springs will find a developed hot spring facility rather than a remote backcountry soak. The site has historically operated as a seasonal resort with pools filled by natural geothermal water. The surrounding landscape features the dramatic Bear Lake Valley, flanked by the Bear River Range to the west and rolling hills to the east, with panoramic views of Bear Lake's famously vivid blue-green waters. The area around the springs is easily accessible by paved road, making it suitable for families and visitors of all mobility levels. The nearby North Beach area of Bear Lake is a popular recreation zone offering sandy beaches, boating, and fishing during the warmer months. Because Bear Lake Hot Springs has historically operated as a managed facility, visitors should check ahead for current hours, seasonal availability, and any admission fees before making the trip. Conditions and operations may vary from year to year. The Bear Lake region experiences cold winters with significant snowfall and warm, dry summers. The hot springs can be especially appealing during the cooler months when the contrast between the warm water and crisp mountain air creates a memorable experience.