Horse Creek Hot Springs
Horse Creek Hot Springs surfaces at 109°F within the Salmon National Forest at 6,080 feet in Lemhi County, accessible roadside just 20 feet from the nearest track. The spring sits in remote mountain country near Salmon, where annual snowfall exceeds 112 inches and the average air temperature hovers below 39°F.
The spring occupies a high mountain drainage where lodgepole pine and spruce forest blankets the slopes of the Salmon River Mountains. The terrain is steep and wild, with few signs of development beyond the forest road. Horse Creek tumbles cold and clear nearby, and elk and mule deer frequent the meadows along the drainage. Winter arrives early at this elevation and lingers late, with snow covering the ground from October through May in most years.
The Salmon River Mountains contain some of Idaho's most active geothermal zones, driven by deep faulting in the Idaho Batholith. Notably, the most recent USGS temperature reading of just 12°C suggests significant mixing with cold surface water at the measurement point, well below the historical 109°F reading at the source. The water chemistry shows remarkably low mineral content, with sodium at only 3.1 mg/L and chloride at 0.3 mg/L, indicating rapid circulation through clean granitic rock.
Alta Campground in the Bitterroot National Forest is the nearest reservable site at 18.4 miles away. The spring is essentially roadside, though the road itself is unpaved and remote. Check current road conditions with the Salmon-Challis National Forest office before visiting. The discrepancy between historical and recent temperature readings means actual soaking conditions may vary considerably depending on seasonal water flow.
Is Horse Creek Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
The water at Horse Creek Hot Springs is slightly acidic (pH 6.4).
Overview Alta Campground is located in a scenic forest in the heart of Montana's Bitterroot National Forest. The West Fork of the Bitterroot River flows nearby, giving visitors access to some of the best fishing the area has to offer, as well as other water-related recreation. Recreation Fly fishing and wading in the Bitterroot River, which runs alongside the campground, are popular activities. A variety of trails and unimproved roads are great for exploring by bike or off-road vehicle. Hiki...