Challis Spring

## Overview Challis Spring is a public drinking spring located near the town of Challis in Custer County, Idaho, at an elevation typical of the upper Salmon River valley. Situated at GPS coordinates 44.50777, -114.23189, the spring lies in the heart of central Idaho's rugged mountain country — a region shaped by ancient volcanic activity and extensive fault systems that allow groundwater to surface as natural springs. The town of Challis itself sits along the Salmon River and has long served as a gateway to the Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, making this spring a convenient stop for adventurers exploring the surrounding backcountry. Central Idaho is well known for its geothermal and cold-water springs, many of which have been used by local communities and travelers for generations. While specific historical records for Challis Spring are limited, the broader Challis area has a rich history tied to mining, ranching, and indigenous use of the land by the Shoshone-Bannock and Lemhi Shoshone peoples, who valued the region's natural water sources. ## Directions 1. Head to the town of Challis, Idaho, located along U.S. Route 93 in Custer County. 2. Use the GPS coordinates **44.50777, -114.23189** to navigate to the spring's location. A GPS device or smartphone mapping app is recommended, as the area can be remote and signage may be limited. 3. The spring is situated in the general vicinity of Challis — look for a public access point near the coordinates provided. *Note: These directions are based on GPS coordinates only. If you have visited this spring and can provide more detailed route information, your contribution would be greatly appreciated.* ## What to Expect Challis Spring is listed as a public drinking spring, suggesting it has historically been used by locals and visitors as a water source. The surrounding landscape is characteristic of central Idaho's high desert and mountain terrain — expect sagebrush-covered hills, rocky outcrops, and views of the nearby mountain ranges. The Salmon River valley provides a dramatic backdrop. The Challis area experiences a semi-arid climate with cold winters and warm, dry summers. Spring flow may vary seasonally, with higher output during spring snowmelt and potentially reduced flow in late summer and fall. Visitors should be aware that water conditions can change, and the spring has not been independently verified for current water quality — while it has historically been used as a drinking water source, conditions may vary. The region around Challis offers excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, rafting, and wildlife viewing. If you're passing through on your way to the Salmon River or the surrounding wilderness areas, Challis Spring can serve as a worthwhile stop to experience one of Idaho's many natural water sources.