Stanley Hot Springs

## Overview Stanley Hot Springs is a remote and rewarding natural hot spring tucked deep in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness of central Idaho, near the border with Montana. Located along Warm Springs Creek — a tributary of the Lochsa River — these geothermal pools sit at an elevation of roughly 3,500 feet in the rugged Clearwater Mountains. The springs are well known among backcountry enthusiasts for their multiple soaking pools of varying temperatures, some of which have been reported to reach well over 100°F (38°C). The hot water emerges from the earth along a hillside and flows down into a series of rock-and-log pools that visitors have shaped over the years for comfortable soaking. The springs are situated within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest, and the area has a long history of use. Indigenous peoples, including the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu), are believed to have frequented the region's thermal waters for centuries. The geothermal activity here is related to the deep faulting and volcanic geology of the Idaho Batholith, which heats groundwater as it circulates far below the surface before rising along fractures in the granite bedrock. Stanley Hot Springs is a free, undeveloped hot spring with no facilities, fees, or services. It is a true wilderness destination — visitors should be prepared for a moderately strenuous hike and full self-sufficiency. ## Directions 1. From Missoula, Montana, head west on US-12 along the Lochsa River corridor. From the Lewiston, Idaho side, head east on US-12. 2. Look for the Warm Springs Pack Bridge and Trailhead, located along US-12 approximately 25 miles west of Powell Junction (Lochsa Lodge) and roughly 70 miles east of Lowell, Idaho. The GPS coordinates for the springs are approximately 46.3179, -115.2588. 3. Cross the Warm Springs Pack Bridge over the Lochsa River to reach the trailhead on the south side of the river. 4. Follow Trail #49 (Warm Springs Trail) south along Warm Springs Creek. The hike to the hot springs is approximately 5 miles one way, with moderate elevation gain. 5. The trail crosses Warm Springs Creek multiple times. Depending on the season and water levels, these crossings can range from easy rock-hops to knee-deep or deeper fords — use caution, especially during spring runoff. 6. The hot springs are located on the hillside to the right (west) side of the trail. Watch for steam rising from the slope and small side paths leading uphill to the soaking pools. ## What to Expect The hike to Stanley Hot Springs is roughly 10 miles round trip through beautiful old-growth forest along Warm Springs Creek. The trail is generally well-defined but can be overgrown in places, especially later in the summer. Multiple creek crossings are required, and water levels can be high and swift in spring and early summer — waterproof footwear or sandals with good grip are highly recommended. At the springs, visitors will find several pools at different temperatures carved into the hillside. The upper pools tend to be hotter, while lower pools mix with cooler creek water for a more comfortable soak. The water has a slight sulfur smell, which is typical of geothermal springs in the region. The surrounding forest of cedar and fir provides a stunning, secluded backdrop. Because this is designated wilderness, Leave No Trace principles are essential. There are no trash cans, restrooms, or developed campsites at the springs themselves, though dispersed camping is available along the trail. Campfires may be subject to seasonal restrictions — check with the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest for current conditions and fire regulations before heading out. The best time to visit is typically mid-summer through early fall (July–October), when creek levels are lower and crossings are safer. Winter and spring access can be challenging or dangerous due to snow, high water, and trail conditions. Cell service is nonexistent in this area, so plan accordingly. Wildlife is abundant in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness — bear spray and proper food storage are strongly recommended. This is prime black bear and grizzly bear habitat.