Barth Hot Springs
Barth Hot Springs pours out at 140 degrees Fahrenheit deep in the Payette National Forest, over 10 miles from the nearest road. This is a genuine backcountry destination requiring multi-day commitment to reach. At 2,640 feet elevation in a river canyon, it sits nearly 90 degrees above the annual air temperature, producing vigorous steam and hot pools along the riverbank.
The spring occupies a narrow canyon bottom where the Selway-Bitterroot country meets the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness. Steep, forested walls rise thousands of feet on both sides. Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir give way to subalpine species on the ridges above. The river runs cold and fast, providing natural mixing pools where hot spring water blends to soakable temperatures. Winter brings over 11 feet of snow to the surrounding mountains, though the low canyon elevation moderates conditions somewhat.
The Magruder Road, built in the 1930s as a Civilian Conservation Corps project, remains one of the most remote maintained roads in the lower 48 states. Barth Hot Springs lies well south of this road, accessible only by trail through country that has seen minimal human development since Nez Perce bands traveled these corridors. The springs emerge along deep crustal faults in Precambrian metamorphic rock overlain by Idaho Batholith granite.
Plan a multi-day backpacking trip to reach Barth Hot Springs. The 10-plus-mile approach from Magruder Road crosses rugged terrain with significant elevation change. Horse Heaven Cabin, a historic Forest Service rental 17 kilometers away, accepts reservations and could serve as a staging point. Source water at 140 degrees Fahrenheit requires mixing with river water for safe soaking. Pack bear-resistant food storage. No cell service. Best attempted July through September.
Is Barth Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Backpacking adventures
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
- Day trips with young children
Overview The Horse Heaven Cabin is a historic cabin that sits between two scenic wilderness areas in central Idaho. It provides access to a variety of trails and recreational opportunities unique to the area. Recreation Visitors to the area enjoy big and small game hunting. Proper licenses are required to hunt within the Idaho and neighboring Montana. There are a variety of hiking and horseback riding trails in the area. Bicycles and motorized travel are not allowed within wilderness boundar...