Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs

Twin Falls County County, Idaho · Near Buhl
42.6920°N, 114.8590°W · 2,900 ft
131°F 2,900 ft Short Walk

Known locally as Miracle Hot Springs, this Twin Falls County source flows at 131 degrees Fahrenheit near Buhl in the Snake River Canyon region. Its alkaline chemistry registers a pH of 9.4 with virtually no magnesium and elevated sodium at 130 mg/L, giving the water a distinctly soft, slippery feel.

The spring sits at 2,900 feet in one of Idaho's warmest and driest corridors. Annual precipitation barely tops 10 inches, and snowfall averages just 14 inches. The surrounding canyon landscape is carved basalt and dry grassland, shaped by the ancient Bonneville Flood. In summer, ambient temperatures push well above the 54.7-degree annual average, narrowing the gap between air and water. In winter, steam pours off the 131-degree source in thick plumes.

History of Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs

The name "Hot Sulphur" references sulfate concentrations of 34 mg/L, noticeable by faint mineral odor near the source. The spring's sodium-dominated chemistry with zero detectable magnesium indicates deep circulation through volcanic rock, likely the rhyolite and basalt formations underlying the Snake River Plain. Commercial development as Miracle Hot Springs brought the water into managed soaking pools.

Located a short walk from the road near Buhl, the spring is accessible in the Snake River Canyon area of Twin Falls County. Water emerges well above safe soaking temperature at the source. Check locally for current access conditions and any facility hours if visiting the developed site. The semi-arid climate means sun protection is essential year-round.

Is Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking.
Monthly Climate
31°
Jan
37°
Feb
45°
Mar
52°
Apr
62°
May
72°
Jun
82°
Jul
80°
Aug
69°
Sep
54°
Oct
41°
Nov
31°
Dec
Annual Precip: 10.5 in Annual Snow: 14.1 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 31°F · Water 131°F · +100° contrast
December Air 31°F · Water 131°F · +100° contrast
February Air 37°F · Water 131°F · +94° contrast
January offers 51°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 134.6°F (57.0°C) Measured Apr 05, 1979
Water Chemistry Sampled 1979-04-05

The water at Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs is alkaline (pH 9.4).

pH 9.4 Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Calcium 1 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 0 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 130 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 34 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 34 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes Hot ground near source
References
USGS Quad: THOUSAND SPRINGS 7.5 · PP 492: 174.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: TWIN FALLS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs?
Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs has a water temperature of 131°F (55°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs located?
Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs is located in Twin Falls County, Idaho at 2,900 feet elevation, near Buhl. Coordinates: 42.6920°N, 114.8590°W.
How do I get to Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs?
Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.4 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs?
At 131°F, Hot Sulphur (Miracle 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 Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs crowded?
Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs?
Essentials for Hot Sulphur (Miracle Hot) Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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.
Temperature
131°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 131°F (55°C)
Avg Air Temp 55°F
Above Ambient +76°F
Great soaking conditions March
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.2 mi