Double J&D Historic Riverside Hot Springs Ranch

## Overview Double J&D Historic Riverside Hot Springs Ranch is a natural hot spring property located along the Middle Fork of the Boise River in the remote backcountry of central Idaho, at approximately 44.053°N, 115.909°W. Situated deep within the rugged wilderness of Boise County, this hot springs ranch sits in a region renowned for its abundance of geothermal activity — Idaho's "hot springs corridor" along the Middle Fork drainage is home to dozens of natural thermal features, many of which have been used for soaking and bathing for centuries. The name suggests a historic ranch property that has incorporated the natural geothermal waters flowing along the riverside. Central Idaho's hot springs are fed by deep geological fractures in the Idaho Batholith, a massive granitic intrusion that heats groundwater as it circulates miles below the surface before rising back up along fault lines and river corridors. Springs in this area typically range from warm to very hot, and many emerge directly along riverbanks, creating natural soaking opportunities where hot spring water mixes with cool river flows. Historically, hot springs throughout this region were valued by the Shoshone-Bannock and Nez Perce peoples long before Euro-American settlement. During the mining era of the late 1800s and early 1900s, many riverside hot springs in the Middle Fork drainage became associated with homesteads and ranches, as settlers recognized both the recreational and practical value of the geothermal water. ## Directions Double J&D Historic Riverside Hot Springs Ranch is located in a remote area of central Idaho, west-northwest of Boise. Access to hot springs along the Middle Fork of the Boise River corridor typically requires travel on unpaved Forest Service roads, which may be seasonal and subject to closures due to snow, fire, or road damage. 1. From Boise, head north on ID-21 (the Boise-Lowman Highway) toward Lowman. 2. Continue through Lowman and look for Forest Service roads leading toward the Middle Fork of the Boise River drainage. 3. The GPS coordinates (44.0531, -115.9088) place this property in a remote area that likely requires high-clearance or 4WD vehicle access. 4. Check with the Boise National Forest ranger station for current road conditions before attempting the drive, especially in spring and late fall when roads may be impassable. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. Visitors are encouraged to confirm access routes with local forest service offices or experienced locals before heading out.* ## What to Expect Given its location in Idaho's geothermal backcountry, visitors can expect a remote, rustic hot springs experience surrounded by forested mountain terrain and the sounds of the river. Hot springs in this region often feature natural pools along the riverbank where thermal water mixes with river water, allowing bathers to find their preferred temperature. The "Ranch" designation in the name suggests there may be structures or developed features on the property — potentially including improved soaking pools, cabins, or other amenities associated with a historic ranch. However, given the extreme remoteness of the location, visitors should come prepared for backcountry conditions: bring adequate supplies, water, food, and navigation tools. Cell phone service is unlikely in this area. The surrounding landscape features steep canyon walls, dense conifer forests, and abundant wildlife including elk, deer, black bears, and mountain goats. The Middle Fork of the Boise River itself offers excellent fishing and scenic beauty. Seasonal considerations are important: summer and early fall (June through October) typically offer the best access, while winter snows can make roads impassable for months. Water temperatures at hot springs in this corridor have historically been reported to range widely, so testing the water before entering is always wise.