Rocky Canyon Hot Springs

## Overview Rocky Canyon Hot Springs is a free, natural hot spring tucked into the rugged backcountry of central Idaho, near the Middle Fork of the Boise River. Located at approximately 44.2527° N, 115.8908° W, this remote geothermal soak sits within the Boise National Forest — a region renowned for its abundance of natural hot springs fed by deep volcanic geology along the Idaho Batholith. Idaho's backcountry hot springs owe their existence to the region's complex volcanic history. Rainwater and snowmelt percolate deep underground, where residual heat from ancient magmatic activity warms the water before it rises back to the surface through fractures in the granite bedrock. Rocky Canyon Hot Springs is one of many such geothermal features scattered across this stretch of the Boise River drainage, offering visitors a chance to soak in naturally heated mineral water surrounded by steep canyon walls and dense conifer forest. As a free, undeveloped hot spring, Rocky Canyon has no entrance fees, no facilities, and no formal management — it's a true wilderness soaking experience. Visitors should be prepared for primitive conditions and practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this natural resource for future visitors. ## Directions 1. From Boise, head east on ID-21 (the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway) toward Idaho City. 2. Continue past Idaho City on ID-21, then turn east onto Middle Fork Road (Forest Road 268), which follows the Middle Fork of the Boise River upstream into the canyon country. 3. Follow Forest Road 268 east along the river. The road is unpaved and can be rough — high-clearance vehicles are recommended, especially in spring or after rain. 4. Watch for Rocky Canyon along the route. The hot springs are located near the river at GPS coordinates 44.2527, -115.8908. A pullout or informal trailhead area may mark the access point. 5. From the road, a short scramble or trail leads down to the soaking pools along the riverbank. *Note: These directions are approximate, based on the GPS coordinates and the known geography of the area. Road conditions and access can change seasonally. It is strongly recommended to carry a detailed Boise National Forest map or download offline maps before heading out, as cell service is extremely limited in this area.* ## What to Expect Rocky Canyon Hot Springs offers a rustic, backcountry soaking experience in one of Idaho's most scenic river canyons. Expect primitive, volunteer-maintained rock pools where hot geothermal water mixes with cool river water, allowing bathers to adjust the temperature by repositioning rocks or choosing pools closer to or farther from the source. The surrounding landscape is classic central Idaho wilderness — steep, forested canyon walls, exposed granite, and the sound of the Middle Fork of the Boise River flowing nearby. The setting is especially beautiful in autumn when the canyon's deciduous trees turn gold, and in winter when steam rises dramatically from the pools against a snowy backdrop. **Seasonal considerations:** Access via Forest Road 268 may be limited or impassable during winter and early spring due to snow and mud. Summer and early fall typically offer the best road conditions and the most comfortable access. During spring runoff, high river levels can submerge the soaking pools entirely. **What to bring:** Pack out all trash, bring drinking water (do not rely on the hot spring water for drinking), and wear sturdy footwear for the approach. There are no restrooms, changing areas, or other amenities. As with all undeveloped hot springs, the pools may contain bacteria — soaking is at your own risk, and it's wise to avoid submerging your head. This is a clothing-optional area in practice, as is common at many remote Idaho hot springs. Expect to share the space with other soakers, especially on weekends during warmer months.