Durfee Hot Springs

## Overview Durfee Hot Springs is a natural geothermal spring located in southern Idaho, near the Utah border, at approximately 42.1039° N, 113.6307° W. Situated in the Raft River Valley area of Cassia County, this hot spring is part of the geothermally active region along the southern Idaho corridor, where underground heat sources warm water that rises to the surface through natural fissures in the earth's crust. The Raft River Valley has long been recognized for its geothermal resources, and Durfee Hot Springs is one of several thermal features in the area. Historically, hot springs throughout this region were used by Native American peoples and later by settlers and travelers passing through southern Idaho. The name "Durfee" likely traces back to an early homesteading family in the area. The spring's geothermal waters are characteristic of the Basin and Range geology found in this part of Idaho, where tectonic activity and deep fault lines allow heated groundwater to reach the surface. Visitors have historically enjoyed the naturally warm waters here, and the site has been known to locals for generations. ## Directions 1. From the town of **Malta, Idaho**, head south on **Idaho Highway 81** (also known as the Raft River Highway). 2. Continue south through the Raft River Valley toward the Idaho-Utah border. 3. Watch for signs or local references to Durfee Hot Springs along the rural roads west of Highway 81. 4. The GPS coordinates **42.1039, -113.6307** place the spring in a rural area of Cassia County. Using a GPS device or mapping app with these coordinates is strongly recommended, as the surrounding roads are remote and may not be well-marked. *Note: Roads in this area may be unpaved or minimally maintained. A vehicle with good clearance is advisable, especially during wet or winter conditions.* ## What to Expect Durfee Hot Springs is located in a remote, rural setting in southern Idaho's high desert landscape. The surrounding terrain is characteristic of the Raft River Valley — open sagebrush flats with views of distant mountain ranges. As a geothermal spring, the water temperature is naturally elevated, though exact temperatures may vary seasonally. Visitors should exercise caution when entering the water, as hot spring temperatures can sometimes be scalding near the source. It's wise to test the water temperature carefully before full immersion. The area is sparsely populated, so visitors should come prepared with supplies, including water, food, and a full tank of gas. Cell phone service may be limited or unavailable in this part of Cassia County. The remote location means you're likely to have a quiet, uncrowded experience — a draw for those seeking solitude in a natural geothermal setting. As with all natural hot springs, water quality can vary and is not monitored or treated. While geothermal waters in this region have historically been enjoyed for soaking, visitors should be aware that untreated natural water may contain minerals or microorganisms.