Weir Creek Hot Springs

## Overview Weir Creek Hot Springs is a beloved backcountry hot spring tucked into the rugged wilderness along the Lochsa River corridor in central Idaho. Located at approximately 46.4738°N, 115.0325°W, the springs sit within the Clearwater National Forest — a region renowned for its pristine rivers, old-growth forests, and abundance of natural geothermal features along U.S. Highway 12. The hot springs emerge from the hillside above Weir Creek, feeding a series of small, user-built soaking pools that cascade down the slope. Water temperatures in the pools have been reported to vary, with upper pools tending to be hotter and lower pools offering a more moderate soak as they mix with cool creek water. The geothermal activity in this part of Idaho is driven by deep faulting along the Bitterroot Range, which allows heated groundwater to rise to the surface. Weir Creek Hot Springs has long been a favorite stop for travelers driving the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway (U.S. Highway 12), which follows the historic route of the Lewis and Clark Expedition through the Bitterroot Mountains. The springs are free to visit and are maintained informally by the community of soakers who frequent them. ## Directions 1. From Lowell, Idaho, head east on U.S. Highway 12 along the Lochsa River. 2. Drive approximately 15–16 miles east of Lowell. The unmarked pullout for Weir Creek Hot Springs is on the south side of the highway, near milepost 142. 3. Look for a small dirt pullout area that can accommodate several vehicles. The trailhead is not signed, so watch carefully for parked cars as an indicator. 4. From the pullout, a short but steep trail (roughly 0.25 to 0.5 miles) leads down to the creek and then up the opposite hillside to the soaking pools. The trail involves crossing Weir Creek, which can be tricky during spring runoff. *Note: GPS coordinates (46.4738, -115.0325) can help pinpoint the pullout, but cell service is extremely limited along this stretch of Highway 12.* ## What to Expect The hike to the hot springs is short but can be moderately challenging, especially the creek crossing and the steep, sometimes slippery trail leading up to the pools. Sturdy footwear with good traction is recommended, particularly in wet conditions. At the springs, visitors will find a handful of rock-and-mud soaking pools of varying sizes and temperatures. The upper pools closest to the source tend to be the hottest, while pools farther downhill are cooler and more comfortable for extended soaking. The surrounding forest is dense and lush, creating a secluded, natural atmosphere. The springs are accessible year-round, though winter visits require extra caution due to icy trail conditions and cold air temperatures. Spring and early summer may bring higher water levels in Weir Creek, making the crossing more difficult. Late summer and fall are generally the easiest and most popular times to visit. There are no facilities, restrooms, or trash receptacles at the site. Visitors are encouraged to pack out everything they bring in to help preserve this natural treasure. As with all wild hot springs, clothing-optional bathing is common here.