Fifth Water Hot Springs (Diamond Fork Hot Springs)Spanish Fork, Utah 84660

## Overview Fifth Water Hot Springs, also known as Diamond Fork Hot Springs, is one of Utah's most popular natural hot spring destinations, tucked into a scenic canyon east of Spanish Fork in Utah County. Fed by geothermally heated water along Fifth Water Creek — a tributary of the Diamond Fork River — the springs feature crystal-clear pools, three stunning waterfalls, and multiple soaking areas where visitors can adjust the water temperature by positioning themselves at different points or controlling the flow between hot and cold water sources. The water carries a noticeable sulfur smell as you approach, which is typical of geothermal springs in the region. Despite the sulfur content, visitors have widely reported the water to be pleasant for soaking. The hot springs have long been a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike, drawing large crowds on weekends year-round. **A note on etiquette:** Nudity is technically against the law at this location, but it is quite common to encounter unclothed bathers, particularly during less busy times. Visitors should be aware of this before planning a trip. ## Directions There are two trailheads that provide access to Fifth Water Hot Springs: ### Option 1: Three Forks Trailhead (Diamond Fork Canyon) — Most Popular 1. From Spanish Fork, drive east on Highway 6 for approximately 11 miles until you see the sign for the **Diamond Fork Turnoff**. 2. Turn onto Diamond Fork Road and follow it for approximately 10 miles to the **Three Forks Trailhead** at the end of the road. 3. From the trailhead, cross the small Diamond Fork River and continue on the obvious, wide, well-maintained trail heading east into the canyon. 4. The trail follows the north side of **Sixth Water Creek**. 5. After approximately one mile, you'll reach a bridge. Cross Sixth Water at the bridge and follow the trail to your right. 6. You'll now be following **Fifth Water Creek**, a smaller creek, hiking east along its north side. 7. As you approach the hot springs area, you'll begin to smell sulfur — a sure sign you're getting close. 8. The main soaking pools are located just below the first waterfall, roughly 2.5 miles from the trailhead. ### Option 2: Rays Valley Trailhead — Less Crowded, Approaches from Above 1. From Spanish Fork, drive east on Highway 6 for approximately 22.5 miles. 2. Turn north onto the paved road designated for **Sheep Creek / Strawberry Reservoir**. 3. Follow this road for about 14 miles to the obvious trailhead at the end. (Note: the trailhead sign is sometimes removed by vandals, but the trailhead itself is unmistakable.) 4. Fifth Water Creek crosses Rays Valley Road right near the trailhead, though it may not have flowing water in certain seasons. 5. Follow the obvious trail southwest as it descends into the deepening canyon. The stream will quickly pick up water as you hike. 6. Continue following the creek downstream to the waterfalls and hot spring pools. The main pools are approximately **2.5 miles** from this trailhead. **GPS Coordinates:** 40.114955, -111.654923 ## What to Expect ### The Waterfalls Three waterfalls line Fifth Water Creek near the hot springs, and each is worth exploring: - **First (Lower) Waterfall:** Located right next to the main soaking pool. This is where most visitors congregate. - **Second Waterfall:** Just a short hike above the first, this multi-tiered waterfall is the most photogenic of the three. Two excellent soaking pools sit along the stream between the first and second waterfalls. - **Third Waterfall:** Found further upstream and worth the extra effort for those who want to explore beyond the crowds. ### The Soaking Pools Multiple soaking pools of varying temperatures are scattered around the hot springs area. The water is crystal clear, and you can adjust the temperature by choosing different pools or by controlling the mix of hot spring water and cool creek water flowing into them. Positioning yourself at various points within a pool can also change the temperature significantly. ### Winter Visits Fifth Water Hot Springs is a spectacular winter destination. The snow on the trail is typically well-packed, and many visitors hike in without snowshoes. However, a **four-wheel-drive vehicle** is generally required to reach the Three Forks Trailhead during winter months. Soaking in the steaming pools surrounded by snow-covered canyon walls is a memorable experience. ### Crowds Expect large crowds on weekends, especially during warmer months. For a more peaceful soak, consider visiting on a weekday or arriving early in the morning. The Rays Valley Trailhead approach tends to be less trafficked than the Three Forks route.