Fifth Water Hot Springs

## Overview Fifth Water Hot Springs — also widely known as Diamond Fork Hot Springs — is one of Utah's most popular natural hot spring destinations, tucked into the mountains of Spanish Fork Canyon in Utah County. Fed by geothermal activity deep beneath the Wasatch Range, the springs produce steaming water that cascades over travertine-like mineral deposits into a series of soaking pools along Fifth Water Creek. The vivid blue-green hues of the mineral-rich water set against a forested canyon backdrop make this one of the most photogenic hot spring sites in the state. The springs sit within the Uinta National Forest and have been a beloved recreation spot for decades. Historically, the area was used by early settlers and has long been a gathering place for locals seeking the therapeutic warmth of the geothermal waters. The name "Fifth Water" refers to the creek itself — the fifth tributary of Diamond Fork Creek — while the more common nickname "Diamond Fork Hot Springs" comes from the broader canyon system. Water temperatures at the source and near the small waterfalls have been reported to reach approximately 130°F (54°C) or higher, making the upper pools quite hot. As the water flows downstream and mixes with the cool creek water, temperatures in the lower soaking pools typically settle around 100–110°F (38–43°C), which most visitors find comfortable. When the springs are busy, the constant movement of bathers can cool the pools slightly. Visitors have noted that the water has a mild sulfur smell characteristic of geothermal springs. ## Directions 1. From Provo or Spanish Fork, head east on US-6 through Spanish Fork Canyon. 2. Turn left (north) onto Diamond Fork Road (Forest Road 029), following signs for Diamond Fork or Palmyra Campground. 3. Continue on Diamond Fork Road for approximately 10 miles. The road is paved for most of the way but transitions to a well-maintained dirt/gravel surface for the final stretch. 4. Look for the Three Forks Trailhead parking area at the end of the road. There is a parking fee (or you can use an America the Beautiful pass). The lot can fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. 5. From the trailhead, follow the well-marked Fifth Water Trail (Trail #056) for approximately 2.5 miles upstream along Fifth Water Creek to reach the hot springs. *Note: In winter, the dirt road may be closed or impassable, extending the approach significantly. Some visitors snowshoe or cross-country ski in during the colder months, which can add several miles to the trip.* ## What to Expect The hike to Fifth Water Hot Springs is approximately 2.5 miles one way along a relatively flat, well-maintained trail that follows the creek through a scenic canyon. Expect the round trip plus soaking time to take roughly 3–4 hours. The trail is mostly level with only gentle inclines, making it accessible for hikers of varying fitness levels, though sturdy hiking shoes are recommended as the path can be rocky and uneven in spots — especially near the springs where wet, slippery rocks are common. The trail winds through a beautiful forested corridor of conifers and aspens, with the sound of the creek accompanying you the entire way. Along the route, you'll pass a lovely waterfall on Fifth Water Creek before arriving at the hot springs area. The springs themselves consist of multiple pools at different temperatures — the pools closest to the source and the small hot waterfalls are significantly warmer, while pools farther downstream where geothermal water mixes with creek water are cooler and more comfortable for extended soaking. This is a very popular destination, particularly on weekends and holidays, when you can expect to share the pools with numerous other visitors. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting on a weekday or arriving early in the morning. There are no hotel accommodations or developed facilities at the springs, but dispersed camping is available in the surrounding national forest area, and several developed campgrounds (including Diamond and Palmyra Campgrounds) are located along Diamond Fork Road. The springs are comparatively warmer than many other natural hot springs in Utah, so exercise caution when entering unfamiliar pools — test the water temperature before submerging. The area around the pools can be slippery due to mineral deposits and algae, so watch your footing. There are no restroom facilities at the springs themselves, so plan accordingly. Pack out all trash to help preserve this remarkable natural area for future visitors.