Hailey Hot Springs flows at 131°F with a pH of 9.6, among the most alkaline thermal waters in Idaho. The spring emerges at 5,420 feet near the town of Hailey in the Wood River Valley, requiring only a short walk of about 480 feet from Democrat Gulch Road to reach the source.
The walk from the road drops toward a draw where thermal water surfaces through fractured rock. The surrounding landscape is high-desert sagebrush transitioning to scattered aspen and cottonwood along water courses. Magnesium is essentially absent at 0.05 mg/L, and calcium barely registers at 2.1 mg/L, making this some of the softest natural water in the state. The air is dry, with only 16.7 inches of annual precipitation, and clear skies dominate most of the year.
History of Hailey Hot Springs
The spring chemistry reads like a textbook example of deep granitic circulation: total dissolved solids of just 268 mg/L, dominated by sodium at 69 mg/L and sulfate at 45 mg/L, with almost no alkaline earth metals. USGS measurements confirm a source temperature of 140°F at depth, and the 89-degree differential above ambient air indicates a deep reservoir feeding this surface expression along the Wood River fault system.
The short walk from Democrat Gulch Road is manageable for most visitors. The 131°F source is hot enough to scald, so approach the point of emergence with caution and test any pooled water before entering. Hailey provides full services including food, fuel, and supplies. Winter brings about 5.5 feet of snow, but the short access distance keeps the spring reachable in most conditions.
Is Hailey Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Hailey Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 16.7 in
Annual Snow: 67.3 in
December
Air 18°F · Water 131°F · +113° contrast
January
Air 20°F · Water 131°F · +111° contrast
February
Air 23°F · Water 131°F · +108° contrast
December offers 52°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
140.0°F
(60.0°C)
Measured May 11, 1988
The water at Hailey Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.6) with 268 mg/L total dissolved solids.
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
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
North Fork Campground is situated on the banks of the beautiful Big Wood River at an elevation of 6,300 feet. Visitors enjoy fishing and tubing on the river and exploring the Harriman Trail.Recreation
This site 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 leads past the campground, offering excellent hiking and biking...
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 North Fork (Id)
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: HAILEY 7.5 · PP 492: 145.0 · NOAA: 14.0 · AMS Map: HAILEY
What is the water temperature at Hailey Hot Springs?
Hailey Hot Springs has a water temperature of 131°F (55°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hailey Hot Springs located?
Hailey Hot Springs is located in Blaine County, Idaho at 5,420 feet elevation, near Hailey. Coordinates: 43.5060°N, 114.3540°W.
How do I get to Hailey Hot Springs?
Hailey Hot Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Democrat Gulch Road (483 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Hailey Hot Springs?
Yes, North Fork (Id) is located nearby (19.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hailey Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.6 (alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 268 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Hailey Hot Springs?
At 131°F, Hailey 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 Hailey Hot Springs crowded?
Hailey Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hailey Hot Springs?
Essentials for Hailey 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.