File:Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - mountain big sagebrush - 2.jpg — cc by-sa 2.0
Easley Hot Springs sits at 6,600 feet in the Sawtooth National Forest, emerging at a soakable 100 degrees F just steps from its namesake road and 14 miles south of Ketchum. A developed campground lies barely 1,000 feet away, and the Big Wood River runs alongside, making this one of the most convenient mountain hot spring experiences in central Idaho.
The setting is classic Sawtooth country. Lodgepole pine and spruce cover the valley floor while jagged peaks rise above the treeline to the north. The Big Wood River bends through the flat here, its cold current audible from the spring. The Harriman Trail passes directly through the area, used by hikers and cyclists in summer and cross-country skiers in winter. At this elevation, snow averages nearly 11 feet per year, and mornings stay cold well into June. The alkaline water has a smooth, silky feel.
History of Easley Hot Springs
Easley occupies the Big Wood River drainage along a major fault system that channels geothermally heated water upward through Cretaceous granitic rock. The water chemistry shows very low calcium and magnesium with elevated sodium at 68 mg/L and a pH of 9.6, indicating deep circulation through the Idaho Batholith before surfacing. The Sawtooth Valley has been a destination for hot spring enthusiasts since the mining era of the late 1800s. The area became part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area in 1972.
Easley Campground sits just 0.2 miles away and accepts reservations. Fly-fishing for rainbow, brown, and brook trout is popular on the Big Wood River. Ketchum and Sun Valley are 14 miles north for supplies and dining. The 20-mile Harriman Trail is accessible from the campground. Snow buries this area from November through May, so plan summer and early fall visits for easiest access.
Is Easley Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Easley Hot Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Annual Precip: 24.9 in
Annual Snow: 127.6 in
December
Air 19°F · Water 100°F · +81° contrast
January
Air 22°F · Water 100°F · +78° contrast
February
Air 23°F · Water 100°F · +78° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
99.5°F
(37.5°C)
Measured Jun 02, 1988
The water at Easley Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.6).
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
Overview
Easley Campground is located along the beautiful Big Wood River at an elevation of 6800 feet, conveniently close to Ketchum, Idaho only 14 miles south. Visitors enjoy fishing, hiking and soaking at Easley Hot Springs.Recreation
Easley is part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, where outdoor activities abound. Fly-fishing for rainbow, brown and brook trout is popular on the Big Wood River, as is float tubing.
The 20-mile Harriman Trail passes through the campground, offering...
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 Easley Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
USGS Quad: EASLEY HOT SPRINGS 7.5 · PP 492: 141.0 · NOAA: 5.0 · AMS Map: HAILEY
What is the water temperature at Easley Hot Springs?
Easley Hot Springs has a water temperature of 100°F (38°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Easley Hot Springs located?
Easley Hot Springs is located in Blaine County, Idaho at 6,600 feet elevation, near Ketchum. Coordinates: 43.7790°N, 114.5390°W.
How do I get to Easley Hot Springs?
Easley Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Easley Hot Springs Road (68 ft from the road).
Is Easley Hot Springs free to visit?
Easley Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Easley Hot Springs?
Yes, Easley Campground is located nearby (0.2 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Easley Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.6 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Easley Hot Springs?
Easley Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Easley Hot Springs crowded?
Easley 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 Easley Hot Springs?
Essentials for Easley 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.