Lava Hot Springs

## Overview Lava Hot Springs is a beloved geothermal destination nestled in the Portneuf River valley of southeastern Idaho's Bannock County. The town itself takes its name from the naturally heated mineral waters that have drawn visitors for centuries. Long before European settlers arrived, the Shoshone and Bannock peoples considered these hot springs sacred healing grounds and used them for therapeutic soaking and as a neutral gathering place among tribes. The springs were eventually designated as a state recreation area, and today the Idaho State Foundation manages the hot springs pools as a public facility. The geothermal waters at Lava Hot Springs emerge from deep underground along the Portneuf Range fault system, heated by residual volcanic activity in the region. The mineral-rich water is naturally free of sulfur, which means there is no unpleasant "rotten egg" smell commonly associated with other hot springs. Water temperatures across the various pools range from approximately 102°F to 112°F (39°C to 44°C), and the pools are fed by a continuous flow of fresh geothermal water — no chemicals or chlorine are added. The mineral content has historically been reported to include beneficial trace elements, contributing to the springs' longstanding reputation as a therapeutic soaking destination. ## Directions Lava Hot Springs is located at 300 East Main Street in the small town of Lava Hot Springs, Idaho (GPS: 42.621, -112.008). 1. **From Pocatello, ID (approximately 35 miles):** Head southeast on US-30 East. Follow US-30 through the Portneuf River canyon for about 35 miles until you reach the town of Lava Hot Springs. The hot springs complex is located right along Main Street in the center of town. 2. **From Interstate 15:** Take Exit 47 (Lava Hot Springs / McCammon exit) and head east on US-30. Continue approximately 11 miles into the town of Lava Hot Springs. The facility will be on your right along East Main Street. 3. Parking is available on-site at the hot springs complex. ## What to Expect The Lava Hot Springs complex features multiple open-air soaking pools of varying temperatures, allowing visitors to find their ideal comfort level. The pools are set against a scenic backdrop of the Portneuf River valley with views of the surrounding hills and mountains. The facility is well-maintained and offers a range of amenities including: - **Picnic areas** for relaxing between soaks - **On-site parking** - **Handicap-accessible** pools and facilities - **Visitor center** with information about the springs and the area - **Restrooms** and changing areas - **Gift shop** - **Food service** available on-site **Admission & Hours:** Hot springs soaking rates range from approximately $5 to $7.50 per person, with higher rates during peak soak hours on Fridays through Sundays. It's a good idea to check the current schedule and pricing before your visit, as rates and hours may vary seasonally. **Accommodations:** There is no overnight lodging at the hot springs facility itself, but the town of Lava Hot Springs is home to numerous hotels, inns, and bed-and-breakfasts — many within easy walking distance. Several nearby lodgings even offer their own private hot springs pools for guests. The town of Lava Hot Springs also features an Olympic-sized swimming pool complex (separate admission), restaurants, shops, and tubing on the Portneuf River during summer months, making it a worthwhile destination for a full day trip or weekend getaway. The hot springs pools are open year-round, and winter soaking — with steam rising off the water against a snowy landscape — is a particularly memorable experience.