File:M 4411640 ne 11 060 20210617.tif — public domain
Belvidere Hot Spring emerges at 111 degrees Fahrenheit along Cabarton Road in Valley County, a short 650-foot walk from the road. Its highly alkaline water registers pH 9.3 with almost no calcium, just 1.2 mg/L, producing an unusually soft, silky-feeling soak.
The spring sits at 4,780 feet in the forested mountains west of Cascade, where the North Fork Payette River drainage gathers snowmelt from peaks receiving nearly 13 feet of snow annually. Tall conifers shade the approach trail. The water is clear with a faint mineral smell, and the surrounding forest floor is carpeted in needles and moss. In winter, the steam rising through snow-laden branches creates a striking scene.
History of Belvidere Hot Spring
Belvidere's sodium-dominated chemistry with negligible calcium points to deep circulation through the granitic Idaho Batholith, dissolving silica and sodium while bypassing carbonate rock entirely. The 67-degree temperature differential between the spring and mean annual air temperature indicates a substantial underground heat source. This section of Valley County sits along a productive geothermal corridor that feeds dozens of thermal features.
The 650-foot walk from Cabarton Road crosses uneven forested terrain. Water at 111 degrees Fahrenheit needs to cool before comfortable soaking. French Creek Campground on Lake Cascade, 9 miles away, accepts reservations and offers access to boating and fishing. Best visited June through October. Bring footwear suitable for a muddy forest path.
Is Belvidere Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Belvidere Hot Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 37.0 in
Annual Snow: 153.7 in
December
Air 23°F · Water 111°F · +88° contrast
January
Air 25°F · Water 111°F · +86° contrast
February
Air 27°F · Water 111°F · +84° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than August
Recent Temperature
113.7°F
(45.4°C)
Measured Jul 18, 1991
The water at Belvidere Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.3).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Overview
French Creek Campground is located next to scenic Lake Cascade in west-central Idaho. It is near the town of Donnelly, at an elevation of 4,850 feet. Boating, fishing, swimming and hiking are popular activities in this scenic region.Recreation
Lake Cascade offers excellent opportunities for boating, water skiing, canoeing, windsurfing and sailing. Anglers enjoy casting for rainbow trout, coho salmon, smallmouth bass and perch. Many hiking and biking trails are in the area as well.Fac...
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 French Creek
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
12 miles from Cascade, ID
USGS Quad: (SMITHS FERRY 15) · NOAA: 10.0 · AMS Map: BAKER
What is the water temperature at Belvidere Hot Spring?
Belvidere Hot Spring has a water temperature of 111°F (44°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Belvidere Hot Spring located?
Belvidere Hot Spring is located in Valley County, Idaho at 4,780 feet elevation, near Cascade. Coordinates: 44.4650°N, 116.0370°W.
How do I get to Belvidere Hot Spring?
Belvidere Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Cabarton Road (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Belvidere Hot Spring?
Yes, French Creek is located nearby (5.6 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Belvidere Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.3 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Belvidere Hot Spring?
At 111°F, Belvidere Hot Spring 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 Belvidere Hot Spring crowded?
Belvidere Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Belvidere Hot Spring?
Essentials for Belvidere Hot Spring: 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.