Alkali Flats Warm Spring emerges at 93°F within the Fort Hall Reservation, maintaining water 49 degrees above ambient in a high-elevation sagebrush environment. The 5,675-foot elevation and tribal management preserve this geothermal feature on Shoshone-Bannock lands.
The spring flows into the Snake River Plain's sagebrush steppe landscape where scattered geothermal features emerge from the high-desert floor. Water emerges warm enough to create visible steam in cold air, surrounded by sparse vegetation adapted to semi-arid conditions.
History of Alkali Flats Warm Spring
Alkali Flats sits on the Snake River Plain, where tectonics and groundwater circulation create conditions for thermal springs at numerous locations. The spring's chemistry reflects mineral-rich water emerging from significant depths in the plain's aquifer system.
Public access status remains unknown on tribal lands, requiring visitor coordination with Fort Hall Reservation authorities. The spring lies 0.9 miles from the road via short walk. Nearby Morgans Bridge Campground 4.2 miles distant offers base support for exploration.
Is Alkali Flats Warm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Alkali Flats Warm Spring is well suited for warm-water soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 19.5 in
Annual Snow: 66.1 in
January
Air 21°F · Water 93°F · +73° contrast
December
Air 20°F · Water 93°F · +73° contrast
February
Air 24°F · Water 93°F · +69° contrast
January offers 51°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
93.2°F
(34.0°C)
Measured Aug 18, 1977
Discharge
0.01 ft³/s
Measured Aug 18, 1977
The water at Alkali Flats Warm Spring is slightly acidic (pH 6.6). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
This BLM managed site located along the Blackfoot River that has opportunities for fishing, camping, and non-motorized boating. Campground rules and regulations are posted at the site. There are no dumpsters on site, visitors must pack in and out their trash.
Campsites: 12 developed sites--- 10 which are accessible by vehicle and 2 which are walk-in only. At this time, there is not a reservation system in place for the campsites. Campsites are on a first come first serve basis.
This site is e...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Morgans Bridge Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: YANDELL SPRINGS 15 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: IDAHO FALLS
What is the water temperature at Alkali Flats Warm Spring?
Alkali Flats Warm Spring has a water temperature of 93°F (34°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Alkali Flats Warm Spring located?
Alkali Flats Warm Spring is located in Bingham County, Idaho at 5,675 feet elevation, near Shelley. Coordinates: 43.0380°N, 112.0040°W.
How do I get to Alkali Flats Warm Spring?
Alkali Flats Warm Spring has Short Walk road access (0.9 mi from the road).
Is Alkali Flats Warm Spring free to visit?
Alkali Flats Warm Spring has Unknown access. It is managed by DESG.
Can I camp near Alkali Flats Warm Spring?
Yes, Morgans Bridge Campground is located nearby (4.2 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Alkali Flats Warm Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 6.6 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Alkali Flats Warm Spring?
Alkali Flats Warm Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Alkali Flats Warm Spring crowded?
Alkali Flats Warm Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Alkali Flats Warm Spring?
Essentials for Alkali Flats Warm Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.