Red River Hot Springs

## Overview Red River Hot Springs is a remote geothermal spring nestled deep in the mountains of central Idaho, located along the Red River in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. Situated at approximately 45.788°N, 115.200°W, this hot spring sits at a relatively high elevation in the rugged backcountry of Idaho County — an area renowned for its abundance of natural hot springs fed by deep geothermal activity along the Idaho Batholith. Historically, Red River Hot Springs has served as a backcountry retreat for over a century. A rustic lodge and resort operated at this location for many decades, drawing visitors who sought the therapeutic warmth of the naturally heated mineral water. The hot springs have long been valued by both Native peoples and early settlers in the region, and the site became a popular destination for miners, loggers, and recreationists exploring the surrounding wilderness. The springs are part of a geothermal corridor in central Idaho where heated groundwater rises along fractures in the granitic bedrock, emerging at the surface at elevated temperatures. The area surrounding Red River Hot Springs is characterized by dense coniferous forests, steep mountain terrain, and the clear waters of the Red River — a tributary system flowing through one of the most remote and least-developed regions of the lower 48 states. ## Directions 1. From the town of **Elk City, Idaho**, head south on the Red River Road (Forest Road 222). 2. Follow Forest Road 222 along the Red River drainage for approximately 20–25 miles into the backcountry. 3. The hot springs are located along this road at GPS coordinates **45.7877, -115.2001**. *Note: Road conditions in this area can be rough, especially during spring snowmelt and after heavy rains. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and the road may be impassable or closed during winter months. Check with the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests ranger station in Elk City for current road conditions before heading out.* ## What to Expect Visitors to Red River Hot Springs will find a remote, backcountry hot spring experience in a beautiful forested mountain setting. The geothermally heated water emerges naturally and has historically been channeled into soaking pools or a small bathhouse associated with the former lodge. Water temperatures at natural hot springs in this part of Idaho typically range from warm to very hot at the source, cooling as they flow into pools or mix with river water. The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Red River corridor is home to elk, deer, black bear, and a variety of bird species. Depending on the season, wildflowers blanket the meadows in summer, and fall brings vibrant foliage to the mountainsides. Because of its remote location, visitors should come prepared with supplies, fuel, and provisions — services are very limited beyond Elk City. Cell phone reception is unreliable to nonexistent in this area. The springs have historically been reported as having clean, mineral-rich water, though as with any natural hot spring, water quality can vary and the water should not be assumed safe for drinking without treatment.