File:-IDAHO-B-0012- Salmon River - Cronks Canyon (5564990431).jpg — cc by-sa 2.0
Cronks Canyon Hot Spring sits at a comfortable 115 degrees Fahrenheit along the Salmon River Scenic Byway in Custer County, one of central Idaho's more accessible backcountry soaks. On BLM land with open public access, the spring requires only a short walk of about 345 feet from the byway to reach the thermal outflow.
The canyon walls along the Salmon River corridor frame the spring in exposed rock and sparse vegetation at 4,740 feet elevation. Winters here are cold, with nearly five feet of annual snowfall, and the contrast between hot mineral water and frigid air creates visible steam from fall through spring. The Salmon River Scenic Byway winds nearby, its two-lane road following the river through narrow canyons. The air is dry and clean, carrying the scent of sage and warm mineral water.
History of Cronks Canyon Hot Spring
Cronks Canyon sits within the broader geothermal province of central Idaho, where deep faults channel heated water to the surface along the Salmon River corridor. The water carries 160 mg/L sodium with moderate sulfate and chloride levels, suggesting a moderate-depth circulation system. The mildly alkaline pH of 7.9 and USGS-confirmed temperature of 45.5 degrees Celsius reflect stable geothermal conditions that have persisted for thousands of years along these ancient fault lines.
The 115-degree temperature is hot but approachable for soaking where the water has cooled slightly downstream. The spring is on BLM land managed by the Challis Field Office, and access is open to the public. Iron Lake Campground lies about 15 miles away but is first-come, first-served with no reservations. The Salmon River Scenic Byway provides year-round road access, though winter driving requires caution.
Is Cronks Canyon Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Cronks Canyon Hot Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 15.8 in
Annual Snow: 59.4 in
December
Air 20°F · Water 115°F · +95° contrast
January
Air 22°F · Water 115°F · +94° contrast
February
Air 25°F · Water 115°F · +91° contrast
December offers 52°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
113.9°F
(45.5°C)
Measured Aug 05, 1980
The water at Cronks Canyon Hot Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.9).
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
Eight campsites with picnic tables and fire rings are along the shores of this high alpine lake. the campground has piped drinking water and vault toilets but no garbage services are available. The trail from campground leads to more lake fishing, at the Hat Lakes to the south. Carry-down access for non motorized boats to the lakes. The drive in along Salmon River Mountain Road, offers spectacular views of craggy peaks and deep pine forests.
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 Iron Lake Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
51 miles from Challis, ID
USGS Quad: CHALLIS 15 · PP 492: 63.0 · NOAA: 7.0 · AMS Map: CHALLIS
What is the water temperature at Cronks Canyon Hot Spring?
Cronks Canyon Hot Spring has a water temperature of 115°F (46°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Cronks Canyon Hot Spring located?
Cronks Canyon Hot Spring is located in Custer County, Idaho at 4,740 feet elevation, near Challis. Coordinates: 44.7200°N, 114.0160°W.
How do I get to Cronks Canyon Hot Spring?
Cronks Canyon Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Salmon River Scenic Byway (345 ft from the road).
Is Cronks Canyon Hot Spring free to visit?
Cronks Canyon Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Cronks Canyon Hot Spring?
Yes, Iron Lake Campground is located nearby (15.5 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Cronks Canyon Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.9 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Cronks Canyon Hot Spring?
At 115°F, Cronks Canyon Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Cronks Canyon Hot Spring crowded?
Cronks Canyon Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Cronks Canyon Hot Spring?
Essentials for Cronks Canyon 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.