Deadwood Hot Springs

Deadwood Hot Springs is a true jewel of the Boise National Forest: three pools — two small, one a large cliff-hanger soaker on a granite ledge above Warm Springs Creek — at the end of an approximately 3-mile hike from Deadwood Reservoir, northwest of Lowman, Idaho. The sources emerge through fissures all over a huge granite outcropping rising straight out of the creek.

The Pools

Pool #1 is a four-person soaker, rock-walled with a sandy bottom, tucked inside a cave; cold water can be piped in and hot water arrives via waterfall from the sources above. Pool #2 is another four-person soaker, rock-and-mortar walled with a sandy bottom, set partially inside a cave, with a drain plug and piped hot water. Pool #3 is the showpiece: a 10-person, rock-and-mortar pool with a smooth granite bottom and a drain plug, perched on a ledge overlooking Warm Springs Creek. Expect a little engineering before you soak — per the latest update, a thorough cleaning and adjustment of the source hoses will most likely be required first. Spend the night or leave yourself ample time.

Seasonal Notes

Season is summer and fall; the Forest Service access road is closed during winter.

Camping

There is room for a couple of small one-person tents above Pool #3. You’ll pass a few other good campsites on the 3-mile hike in, the closest about 0.3 miles from the hot springs.

Deadwood Hot Springs Soak Stats

• Season: Summer, fall
• Access Type: Hike (approx. 3 miles) or multiday
• Public Land: Boise National Forest
• Elevation: 5,520 ft
• Water Temperature: 96–99°F (potential for higher with hose adjustment)
• Water Clarity: Clear
• Visibility: Low
• Odor(s): None noticed
• Nearest Area: NW of Lowman (Deadwood Reservoir)
• Wildlife: Deer, elk; black bear and mountain lion sign
• Usage Level: Low