Lower Bowery Hot Spring surfaces at 129 degrees Fahrenheit and 6,820 feet elevation in the Sawtooth National Forest above Sun Valley, where the annual average temperature is just 39 degrees. That 90-degree differential between water and air makes it one of the hotter-above-ambient springs in central Idaho, with sulfate-rich chemistry at 120 milligrams per liter.
Snow dominates this landscape for more than half the year. At nearly 7,000 feet in Blaine County, the Sawtooth foothills are blanketed by 130 inches of snow annually, and the forest is a mix of lodgepole pine, subalpine fir, and spruce. The spring sits 253 meters from the nearest road, a short walk through timber. In summer, the surrounding meadows fill with lupine and Indian paintbrush. The Big Wood River drainage below carries snowmelt well into July, and the contrast of hot mineral water against cold mountain air produces thick clouds of steam.
History of Lower Bowery Hot Spring
The Sawtooth Range and its foothills are composed of Cretaceous granite intruded into older metamorphic rocks. Hot water ascends along faults in this fractured bedrock, picking up sodium (80 mg/L) and sulfate (120 mg/L) during deep circulation. The pH of 8.5 indicates moderately alkaline conditions. USGS measurements confirm a source temperature of 52.5 degrees Celsius, slightly below the 1980 NOAA survey reading, which may reflect seasonal variation or slight changes in flow path.
Sun Valley and Ketchum are about 20 kilometers south, making this spring accessible as a day trip. The 253-meter walk from the road is straightforward in summer but challenging in winter without snowshoes or skis. Source water at 129 degrees requires significant cooling before soaking. Wood River Group Overnight Area, 20 kilometers away, accepts reservations and sits at 6,400 feet along the Big Wood River with fishing and trail access nearby.
Is Lower Bowery Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Lower Bowery Hot Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 25.0 in
Annual Snow: 129.7 in
December
Air 20°F · Water 129°F · +109° contrast
January
Air 22°F · Water 129°F · +107° contrast
February
Air 22°F · Water 129°F · +107° contrast
December offers 44°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
126.5°F
(52.5°C)
Measured Aug 07, 1980
The water at Lower Bowery Hot Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 8.5).
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
Overview
Wood River Group Overnight Area is located inside the Wood River Campground, which has 30 single campsites for RV's and tent camping, which are available for use on a first-come first-served basis.
This campground is located on the banks of the beautiful Big Wood River at an elevation of 6400 feet. Ketchum, Idaho is conveniently close, only 10 miles south. Visitors enjoy fishing, tubing and exploring local trails.Recreation
This site is part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area,...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Wood River Group Overnight Area (Tent Only)
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Sun Valley, ID
USGS Quad: (RYAN PEAK 7.5) · NOAA: 3.0 · AMS Map: HAILEY
What is the water temperature at Lower Bowery Hot Spring?
Lower Bowery Hot Spring has a water temperature of 129°F (54°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Lower Bowery Hot Spring located?
Lower Bowery Hot Spring is located in Blaine County, Idaho at 6,820 feet elevation, near Sun Valley. Coordinates: 43.9740°N, 114.4990°W.
How do I get to Lower Bowery Hot Spring?
Lower Bowery Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Is Lower Bowery Hot Spring free to visit?
Lower Bowery Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Lower Bowery Hot Spring?
Yes, Wood River Group Overnight Area (Tent Only) is located nearby (12.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Lower Bowery Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.5 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Lower Bowery Hot Spring?
At 129°F, Lower Bowery Hot Spring 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 Lower Bowery Hot Spring crowded?
Lower Bowery Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Lower Bowery Hot Spring?
Essentials for Lower Bowery 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.