File:George Carlin's Elk.jpg — public domain
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is one of Idaho's most visited backcountry soaks, flowing at 118 degrees Fahrenheit along the Lochsa Wild and Scenic River corridor in the Clearwater National Forest. Multiple pools, including a well-known big pool mapped on OpenStreetMap, sit at 3,238 feet elevation roughly a mile from Highway 12.
The trail drops through dense old-growth cedar and fir forest along Warm Springs Creek before reaching the pools scattered along the creek bank. This is one of Idaho's wettest mountain corridors, receiving nearly 43 inches of rain and an extraordinary 199 inches of snow annually. The forest canopy filters light onto the pools, and the sound of the Lochsa River carries through the trees. In winter, deep snow buries the trail, and steam rises through the frozen landscape in dramatic columns.
History of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
The springs emerge along a fault zone where the Bitterroot Range meets the Lochsa River canyon. The highly alkaline pH of 9.5 and sodium-dominant chemistry with minimal chloride suggest deep circulation through the Idaho Batholith granitic rock. Lewis and Clark passed through this corridor in 1805, and the Nez Perce people used these springs long before European contact. The springs remain undeveloped, protected within national forest land.
The trailhead sits along Highway 12 at roughly mile marker 152, with Whitehouse Campground nine kilometers east offering 13 first-come sites on the Lochsa River. The one-mile hike is moderate and well-traveled. Source water at 118 degrees is too hot for direct entry, but multiple pools along the creek offer varied temperatures as hot water mixes with cold creek flow. Expect company on summer weekends. Practice Leave No Trace.
Is Jerry Johnson Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 42.7 in
Annual Snow: 198.7 in
December
Air 26°F · Water 118°F · +92° contrast
January
Air 29°F · Water 118°F · +89° contrast
February
Air 29°F · Water 118°F · +89° contrast
December offers 44°F more contrast than August
Recent Temperature
119.3°F
(48.5°C)
Measured Jul 14, 1982
The water at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.5).
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
Approximately an hour west of Lolo, MT at mile post 158.5 of the famous Northwest Passage Scenic Byway and All American Road (US Highway 12), directly across from the Lochsa Wild and Scenic River, rests the Whitehouse Campground. This riverside campground has 13 sites and due to its close proximity to the Lewis and Clark Trail, has much more to offer than just camping. It's an ideal location for fishing, hiking, back packing, nature viewing or as a place to stop and have a picnic while enjo...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Whitehouse Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
3 miles from Superior, ID
USGS Quad: TOM BEAL PEAK 7.5 · PP 492: 3.0 · NOAA: 2.0 · AMS Map: HAMILTON
What is the water temperature at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs has a water temperature of 118°F (48°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Jerry Johnson Hot Springs located?
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is located in Mineral County, Idaho at 3,238 feet elevation, near Superior. Coordinates: 46.4630°N, 114.8720°W.
How do I get to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.9 mi from the road).
Is Jerry Johnson Hot Springs free to visit?
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?
Yes, Whitehouse Campground is located nearby (5.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.5 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?
At 118°F, Jerry Johnson Hot Springs 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 Jerry Johnson Hot Springs crowded?
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?
Essentials for Jerry Johnson Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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.