Alpine Warm Spring emerges at 99°F near Hoback at 5,580 feet elevation, maintaining water 55.6°F above ambient in mountain terrain. The spring's robust discharge and elevated mineral content reflect circulation through deep geothermal pathways in the Palisades Reservoir area.
The spring flows from volcanic rock in high mountain terrain where winters deliver 137 inches of snow annually. Water emerges noticeably warm amid spruce-fir forest in an environment where ambient temperatures average 43.4°F, creating visible steam in cold seasons.
History of Alpine Warm Spring
Alpine Warm Spring's high sodium and chloride content suggests deep groundwater circulation through ancient mineral-bearing formations underlying the Palisades area. Heat and mineral enrichment together indicate long subsurface residence time before emergence.
Access requires 0.8 miles of hiking from US Highway 26 via short walk. Snow can block routes from November through April. Blowout Campground 1.9 miles distant offers RV-accessible camping with 30 developed sites at 5,700 feet elevation.
Is Alpine Warm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Alpine Warm Spring is well suited for warm-water soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 28.1 in
Annual Snow: 137.0 in
January
Air 23°F · Water 99°F · +76° contrast
December
Air 24°F · Water 99°F · +76° contrast
February
Air 26°F · Water 99°F · +73° contrast
January offers 46°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
98.6°F
(37.0°C)
Measured Sep 27, 1977
Discharge
0.01 ft³/s
Measured Sep 27, 1977
The water at Alpine Warm Spring is slightly acidic (pH 6.5). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration).
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
5700-foot elevation. 30 campsites on the east side of Palisades Reservoir. Excellent for RVs and large boats and trailers. Second largest boating facility on the reservoir. Forested sites available on top of the hill. RV sites at reservoir shoreline next to boat ramp.
We are working to update this page. Please visit the website below for more information.
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 Blowout Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: (ALPINE 7.5) · NOAA: 6.0 · AMS Map: DRIGGS
What is the water temperature at Alpine Warm Spring?
Alpine Warm Spring has a water temperature of 99°F (37°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Alpine Warm Spring located?
Alpine Warm Spring is located in Teton County, Idaho at 5,580 feet elevation, near Hoback. Coordinates: 43.2270°N, 111.1090°W.
How do I get to Alpine Warm Spring?
Alpine Warm Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being US Highway 26 (0.8 mi from the road).
Is Alpine Warm Spring free to visit?
Alpine Warm Spring has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Reclamation.
Can I camp near Alpine Warm Spring?
Yes, Blowout Campground is located nearby (1.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Alpine Warm Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 6.5 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Alpine Warm Spring?
Alpine Warm Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Alpine Warm Spring crowded?
Alpine Warm Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Alpine Warm Spring?
Essentials for Alpine 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.