Bear Lake Hot Springs surfaces at 118 degrees Fahrenheit near the Utah border at 5,994 feet elevation, just steps from Merkley Lake Road. Its mineral-heavy water contains 800 mg/L sulfate and 210 mg/L calcium, leaving thick travertine deposits around the outflow channels.
The spring sits in the high valley east of Bear Lake, where broad meadows stretch between forested ridgelines. The turquoise waters of Bear Lake itself shimmer a few miles to the south. The air smells faintly of sulfur near the source. At this elevation, winters are long and cold with over five feet of annual snow, while summers bring warm days and cool nights across the open rangeland.
History of Bear Lake Hot Springs
Bear Lake Hot Springs rises along the East Bear Lake Fault, one of several active normal faults bounding the Bear Lake graben. The unusually high calcium, magnesium, and sulfate concentrations suggest the water passes through Paleozoic carbonate and evaporite formations before surfacing. Bear Lake itself is a remnant of the Pleistocene Lake Bonneville system, placing these springs in a landscape shaped by both tectonic and glacial forces.
The spring is roadside along Merkley Lake Road, accessible year-round by vehicle in dry conditions. Water at 118 degrees Fahrenheit requires caution. St. Charles Campground, 15 miles south, accepts reservations and sits near Bear Lake State Park. The nearest town, Paris, offers basic services. Check road conditions in winter, as snow and ice can make secondary roads difficult.
Is Bear Lake Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Bear Lake Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 17.7 in
Annual Snow: 64.4 in
January
Air 21°F · Water 118°F · +97° contrast
December
Air 21°F · Water 118°F · +97° contrast
February
Air 23°F · Water 118°F · +95° contrast
January offers 50°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
117.5°F
(47.5°C)
Measured May 09, 1972
Overview
St. Charles Campground is situated on its namesake creek in the scenic St. Charles Canyon, approximately 8 miles from Bear Lake State Park and North Beach.Recreation
Nearby, the North Fork Trail and its associated trails access the Highline Trail #316. The Highline Trail is part of the National Trail System and is the area's premier trail. It stretches 55 miles along the backbone of the Wasatch Mountains and is open to hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders and motorcyclists, attr...
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 St. Charles Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: BEAR LAKE NORTH 7.5 · PP 492: 196.0 · NOAA: 14.0 · AMS Map: PRESTON
What is the water temperature at Bear Lake Hot Springs?
Bear Lake Hot Springs has a water temperature of 118°F (48°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Bear Lake Hot Springs located?
Bear Lake Hot Springs is located in Bear Lake County, Idaho at 5,994 feet elevation, near Paris. Coordinates: 42.1150°N, 111.2640°W.
How do I get to Bear Lake Hot Springs?
Bear Lake Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Merkley Lake Road (156 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Bear Lake Hot Springs?
Yes, St. Charles Campground is located nearby (9.3 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Bear Lake Hot Springs?
At 118°F, Bear Lake Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Bear Lake Hot Springs crowded?
Bear Lake Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Bear Lake Hot Springs?
Essentials for Bear Lake Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.