Bear Lake Hot Springs

## Overview Bear Lake Hot Springs is a geothermal spring located near the southern end of Bear Lake, close to the Idaho–Utah border (GPS: 42.1085, -111.2657). The Bear Lake region is well known for its geothermal activity, and hot springs in this area have been used for bathing and recreation for well over a century. Bear Lake itself — sometimes called the "Caribbean of the Rockies" for its striking turquoise-blue water — sits at roughly 5,900 feet of elevation in a scenic mountain valley, and the surrounding geothermal features add to the area's natural appeal. Historically, the hot springs near Bear Lake were frequented by Native American peoples long before European settlers arrived, and by the late 1800s and early 1900s, several hot spring sites in the valley were developed into bathhouses and resorts. The geothermal waters in this part of southeastern Idaho are heated by deep geological faults associated with the Basin and Range tectonic province, which allows groundwater to circulate to significant depths before rising back to the surface at elevated temperatures. While specific water temperature and mineral composition data for this particular spring site are not confirmed, hot springs in the Bear Lake corridor have historically been reported to range from warm to quite hot, and the mineral-rich waters have long been valued by visitors for soaking. ## Directions 1. From the town of **Montpelier, Idaho**, head south on **US-89 South** toward Bear Lake. 2. Continue along US-89 as it follows the western shore of Bear Lake. 3. The spring is located on the western side of Bear Lake, near the coordinates **42.1085, -111.2657**. Look for access points or signage along US-89 south of the town of **St. Charles, Idaho**, and north of **Garden City, Utah**. 4. Use the GPS coordinates for precise navigation, as the spring may not be prominently marked from the road. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. Visitors are encouraged to verify access and road conditions before heading out, especially in winter months when roads in the Bear Lake valley can be affected by snow.* ## What to Expect The Bear Lake Hot Springs area sits in a picturesque mountain valley with views of Bear Lake and the surrounding Wasatch and Bear River ranges. The region experiences cold, snowy winters and warm summers, making the hot springs an especially popular destination during the cooler months. Visitors should be aware that access conditions and land ownership may vary — some hot spring sites in the Bear Lake area are on private property or have been commercially developed, while others may be more informal soaking spots. It's a good idea to check current access status before visiting. Cell service can be limited in parts of the Bear Lake valley, so downloading maps or directions in advance is recommended. The broader Bear Lake area offers plenty of additional recreation, including boating, fishing, hiking, and snowmobiling, making it easy to combine a hot springs visit with a full day of outdoor adventure.