Chanttanooga Hot Springs

## Overview Chattanooga Hot Springs is a free natural hot spring located in the mountains of central Idaho, near the town of Lowman in Boise County. Situated at approximately 43.8135°N, 115.1179°W, this geothermal spring sits within the rugged backcountry of the Boise National Forest — a region renowned for its abundance of natural hot springs fed by deep geothermal activity along the South Fork of the Payette River corridor. Central Idaho's hot springs owe their existence to the region's volcanic geology. The Idaho Batholith, a massive body of granitic rock, allows snowmelt and groundwater to percolate deep underground, where it is heated by residual geothermal energy before rising back to the surface through fractures and faults. Chattanooga Hot Springs is one of many such thermal features scattered throughout this geologically active landscape. As a free, undeveloped hot spring, Chattanooga offers a more primitive and secluded soaking experience compared to commercial hot spring resorts in the area. Visitors should be aware that water temperatures at natural hot springs can vary significantly by season and flow conditions, and that undeveloped springs lack the water treatment systems found at developed facilities. ## Directions 1. From Boise, head east on ID-21 (the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway) toward Lowman — a drive of roughly 75 miles through beautiful mountain terrain. 2. Continue through or past the small community of Lowman, following the road into the surrounding national forest lands. 3. The hot spring is located at GPS coordinates **43.8135, -115.1179**. Use these coordinates in a GPS device or mapping app for precise navigation, as the final approach may involve forest roads or short trails that are not well-signed. 4. A high-clearance vehicle may be advisable depending on road conditions, particularly during spring snowmelt or after heavy rain. Check with the Boise National Forest ranger station in Lowman for current road and access conditions before heading out. *Note: These directions are based on GPS coordinates and general regional knowledge. Conditions on forest roads can change seasonally, so it is recommended to verify access routes locally before your visit.* ## What to Expect Chattanooga Hot Springs is an undeveloped, backcountry hot spring in the Idaho mountains. Visitors can expect a rustic, natural setting surrounded by pine forests and mountain scenery typical of the Boise National Forest. As a free and informal soaking spot, there are unlikely to be developed facilities such as restrooms, changing areas, or maintained paths. The water temperature at natural hot springs in this region can range widely — from pleasantly warm to scalding — so always test the water carefully before entering. Some springs in the area feature user-built rock pools where hot spring water mixes with cooler creek or river water, allowing bathers to find a comfortable temperature. Central Idaho's hot springs are best visited during the warmer months (late spring through early fall), when forest roads are most accessible. Winter visits may be possible but could require snowshoeing or skiing in, and road closures are common. Cell phone service in this area is limited to nonexistent, so plan accordingly and let someone know your itinerary. As with all natural hot springs, the water has not been tested or treated for public use. While many visitors enjoy soaking in Idaho's wild hot springs, the water quality and safety cannot be guaranteed. Practice Leave No Trace principles — pack out all trash and respect the natural environment so this spring remains enjoyable for future visitors.