At 158°F, the source water at Lakey 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.
Lakey Hot Spring discharges at 158 degrees Fahrenheit in Adams County, making it one of western Idaho's hottest thermal features. Positioned at just 2,680 feet near Council, this spring sits at a notably low elevation for the region, producing water more than 107 degrees above the surrounding air temperature.
The spring emerges in the foothills along the Weiser River drainage, where ponderosa pine gives way to bunchgrass slopes and scattered juniper. The terrain is drier and warmer than the higher mountain springs to the east, with about 22 inches of annual precipitation and modest snowfall of 38 inches. The air carries a distinct mineral scent from the sodium- and sulfate-rich discharge, and the ground near the source is stained white with mineral deposits.
History of Lakey Hot Spring
Water chemistry reveals a near-neutral pH of 7.8, unusual for Idaho hot springs that typically run alkaline. Sodium reaches 200 milligrams per liter and chloride 140 milligrams per liter, indicating deep circulation and extended contact with subsurface rock. USGS measurements confirm 70 degrees Celsius at the source. The spring's chemical signature differs markedly from the sodium-bicarbonate waters found in the Idaho Batholith to the east.
The spring is a roughly 375-meter walk from Goodrich Road, an easy but unmarked trail. At 158 degrees, the source water is dangerously hot and requires extreme caution. There are no developed facilities nearby. The nearest reservable accommodation is Buck Park Cabin, a rustic three-person shelter at 7,280 feet on Cuddy Mountain, about 23 miles away in the Payette National Forest. Council, the nearest town, has basic services.
Is Lakey Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Lakey Hot Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
27°Jan
33°Feb
41°Mar
48°Apr
58°May
66°Jun
77°Jul
77°Aug
66°Sep
51°Oct
39°Nov
29°Dec
Annual Precip: 22.1 inAnnual Snow: 37.7 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 27°F · Water 158°F · +131° contrast
DecemberAir 29°F · Water 158°F · +129° contrast
FebruaryAir 33°F · Water 158°F · +126° contrast
January offers 50°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
158.0°F
(70.0°C)Measured Jun 28, 1972
Water ChemistrySampled 1972-06-28
The water at Lakey Hot Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.8). It is notably rich in sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation) and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Buck Park Cabin is located on Cuddy Mountain, in the Payette National Forest of central Idaho. Guests enjoy the remote area for its hunting opportunities and abundance of hiking, biking, horseback riding and off-road vehicle trails. The cabin sits at an elevation of 7,280 feet within Buck Park, a scenic meadow surrounded by a dense conifer forest. Rush Lake, Hornet and Lower Hornet reservoirs are nearby.
This very rustic cabin can accommodate a maximum of three people. Metal cots are...
What is the water temperature at Lakey Hot Spring?
Lakey Hot Spring has a water temperature of 158°F (70°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Lakey Hot Spring located?
Lakey Hot Spring is located in Adams County, Idaho at 2,680 feet elevation, near Council. Coordinates: 44.5860°N, 116.6300°W.
How do I get to Lakey Hot Spring?
Lakey Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Goodrich Road (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Lakey Hot Spring?
Yes, Buck Park Cabin is located nearby (14.6 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Lakey Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.8 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Lakey Hot Spring?
The water at Lakey Hot Spring reaches 158°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. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Lakey Hot Spring crowded?
Lakey Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Lakey Hot Spring?
Essentials for Lakey Hot Spring: 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.