Trail Creek Hot Springs

## Overview Trail Creek Hot Springs is a free, natural hot spring tucked into the rugged backcountry of central Idaho, near the town of Lowman in Boise County. Located at approximately 44.628°N, 115.751°W, this remote geothermal soak sits along Trail Creek in the heart of the Boise National Forest — a region renowned for its abundance of natural hot springs fed by deep geothermal activity along the Idaho Batholith. Central Idaho's hot springs corridor, stretching along the South Fork of the Payette River and its tributaries, is one of the most geothermally active areas in the western United States. The region's volcanic geology drives superheated water to the surface through fractures in the granitic bedrock, creating dozens of soakable hot springs. Trail Creek Hot Springs is one of these hidden gems, offering a more secluded alternative to the better-known springs in the area. As an undeveloped, primitive hot spring, Trail Creek Hot Springs has no admission fee, no facilities, and no formal management — it is a true backcountry soaking experience. ## Directions 1. From Lowman, Idaho, head east on Idaho Highway 21 (the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway). 2. Watch for Trail Creek Road branching off the highway. The GPS coordinates for the spring are approximately **44.6278, -115.7509** — use these to navigate via a GPS device or mapping app, as signage may be limited. 3. Follow Trail Creek Road toward the spring. The road may be unpaved and rough in places, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. 4. The final approach may require a short hike along the creek to reach the soaking area. *Note: Road conditions can vary significantly by season. Snow and mud may make access difficult or impossible during late fall through early spring. Always check current conditions with the Boise National Forest ranger station before heading out.* ## What to Expect Trail Creek Hot Springs is a primitive, undeveloped hot spring in a forested mountain setting along Trail Creek. Visitors should expect a rustic experience — there are no changing rooms, restrooms, or maintained paths at the site. The soaking pools are typically formed by rocks arranged along the creek, where hot geothermal water mixes with the cool creek water. This allows bathers to adjust the temperature by repositioning rocks or moving closer to or farther from the hot water source. Water temperatures at Idaho backcountry hot springs in this region commonly range from around 100°F to over 130°F at the source, cooling as they mix with creek water. The surrounding landscape features dense conifer forests, granite canyon walls, and the sounds of flowing water — a quintessential Idaho wilderness setting. Wildlife sightings, including deer, elk, and various bird species, are common in the area. Because this is a free, unmanaged hot spring, visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, respect the natural surroundings, and leave the pools as you found them. The area may see light to moderate use during summer months, but its relative remoteness keeps crowds small compared to more accessible springs along Highway 21. Cell service is generally unavailable in this area, so plan accordingly and let someone know your itinerary before heading out.