Stuart Hot Springs

## Overview Stuart Hot Springs is a remote natural hot spring located in the mountains of central Idaho, near the coordinates 46.138°N, 115.09°W. Situated in the rugged backcountry of Idaho County, this free-access geothermal spring draws visitors seeking a secluded soaking experience far from developed resort-style hot springs. The area falls within the broader Idaho Batholith region, a vast expanse of granitic rock where geothermally heated water rises along deep fractures and faults — a geological process that feeds many of Idaho's renowned hot springs. Idaho is home to more natural hot springs than nearly any other state in the Lower 48, and Stuart Hot Springs is one of the lesser-known gems tucked into this landscape. The spring's remote location means it sees relatively few visitors, offering a more peaceful and primitive experience compared to more popular soaking spots. ## Directions 1. Stuart Hot Springs is located in a remote area of Idaho County, Idaho, at approximate GPS coordinates **46.138, -115.09**. 2. Access to this area typically requires travel along backcountry forest roads. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended, and 4WD may be necessary depending on road conditions and the season. 3. Due to the remote nature of this spring, it is advisable to download offline maps and have reliable GPS navigation loaded before departing, as cell service in this part of Idaho is extremely limited or nonexistent. 4. Road conditions can change significantly with weather and season — forest roads in this region may be impassable due to snow from late fall through early summer. *Note: Detailed turn-by-turn directions to Stuart Hot Springs are not currently available. If you have visited and can share route details, your contribution would help future visitors.* ## What to Expect As a free, undeveloped hot spring in the Idaho backcountry, Stuart Hot Springs offers a primitive soaking experience. Visitors should expect minimal or no improvements — there are unlikely to be constructed pools, signage, or maintained facilities at the site. The surrounding terrain is characteristic of Idaho's mountainous interior: forested slopes, rocky outcrops, and clear mountain streams. The area is remote and wild, so visitors should be prepared for encounters with wildlife and should pack out all trash to help preserve the site. Because this is an undeveloped geothermal feature, water temperatures can vary. It is wise to test the water carefully before entering, as source temperatures at natural hot springs can be scalding. Mixing with nearby cold water sources (if available) is a common practice at primitive springs to achieve a comfortable soaking temperature. Given the remote location, visitors should bring adequate supplies including water, food, a first aid kit, and appropriate clothing for rapidly changing mountain weather. Let someone know your plans before heading out, as emergency services response times in this area would be lengthy.