At 156°F, the source water at Kwiskwis Hot Spring is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
Kwiskwis Hot Spring is a true backcountry thermal feature, requiring a multi-mile hike to reach and emerging at a scalding 156 degrees Fahrenheit at 5,670 feet elevation in the Boise National Forest. With the nearest road nearly four miles away, this is one of Idaho's most remote publicly accessible hot springs.
The spring surfaces in rugged, high-elevation terrain where subalpine fir and whitebark pine thin out against rocky slopes. The surrounding landscape is a patchwork of meadows and dense forest, with long views across the mountains of central Idaho. At this elevation, winter arrives early and lingers late, with over 134 inches of annual snowfall and average air temperatures hovering around 41 degrees. Steam pours off the superheated water and hangs in the cold mountain air.
History of Kwiskwis Hot Spring
USGS data records the water at 68 degrees Celsius with a pH of 9.0 and sodium concentrations of 120 milligrams per liter. The extreme temperature differential of 115 degrees above ambient air reflects deep geothermal circulation through fractured granitic rock. This area borders the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, and the spring sits in terrain that has changed little since the region was first surveyed.
This spring requires a serious hike of roughly four miles from the nearest road, Meadow Creek Lookout Road. The water is far too hot for direct soaking without significant natural cooling. The nearest reservable shelter is Johnson Creek Guard Station, a 1922 cabin about 23 miles away, accessible by dirt road. Plan for full backcountry self-sufficiency and check trail conditions with the Boise National Forest ranger district before heading out.
Is Kwiskwis Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Kwiskwis Hot Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
23°Jan
25°Feb
31°Mar
36°Apr
44°May
55°Jun
66°Jul
65°Aug
55°Sep
41°Oct
28°Nov
20°Dec
Annual Precip: 27.2 inAnnual Snow: 134.2 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 20°F · Water 156°F · +136° contrast
JanuaryAir 23°F · Water 156°F · +133° contrast
FebruaryAir 25°F · Water 156°F · +131° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
154.4°F
(68.0°C)Measured Jul 31, 1979
Water ChemistrySampled 1979-07-31
The water at Kwiskwis Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.0).
Overview
Johnson Creek Guard Station was built in 1922 and offers a charming mountain respite with modern conveniences. The cabin offers nearly everything needed for a pleasant and comfortable stay.
Peak season for the cabin is typically early June through late September. It can be accessed by most vehicles via dirt and gravel roads, but trailers are not
recommended.Recreation
The cabin is near several trailheads into the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness. These non-motorized tr...
What is the water temperature at Kwiskwis Hot Spring?
Kwiskwis Hot Spring has a water temperature of 156°F (69°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Kwiskwis Hot Spring located?
Kwiskwis Hot Spring is located in Valley County, Idaho at 5,670 feet elevation, near Cascade. Coordinates: 44.8310°N, 115.2150°W.
How do I get to Kwiskwis Hot Spring?
Kwiskwis Hot Spring has Hike road access, with the nearest road being Meadow Creek Lookout Road (4.0 mi from the road).
Is Kwiskwis Hot Spring free to visit?
Kwiskwis Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Kwiskwis Hot Spring?
Yes, Johnson Creek Guard Station is located nearby (14.5 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Kwiskwis Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.0 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Kwiskwis Hot Spring?
The water at Kwiskwis Hot Spring reaches 156°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Kwiskwis Hot Spring crowded?
Kwiskwis Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Kwiskwis Hot Spring?
Essentials for Kwiskwis Hot Spring: 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.
Temperature
156°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp156°F (69°C)
Avg Air Temp41°F
Above Ambient+115°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessHike
Nearest RoadMeadow Creek Lookout Road
Distance to Road4.0 mi
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyUS Forest Service
DesignationNational Forest
UnitBoise National Forest
ManagerUS Forest Service
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use