At 172°F, the source water at Maple Grove Hot Springs 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.
File:Autumn Mountain.jpg — cc by-sa 4.0
Maple Grove Hot Springs surfaces at a scalding 172 degrees Fahrenheit, making it one of the hottest springs in southeastern Idaho. Located along Oneida Narrows Road in Franklin County near Preston, the source temperature runs 125 degrees above the surrounding air, requiring significant cooling before any human contact is possible.
At 4,900 feet elevation in the narrow canyon cut by the Bear River, steam rises from the source where 172-degree water meets mountain air. The canyon walls funnel wind through the narrows, and the smell of mineral-rich water carries downstream. With 83 inches of annual snowfall blanketing the surrounding slopes, winter transforms the area into a stark contrast of white snow and billowing steam from the superheated outflow.
History of Maple Grove Hot Springs
Geological faulting along the Oneida Narrows allows deeply circulated groundwater to reach the surface at near-boiling temperatures. USGS records show 76 degrees Celsius with neutral pH of 7.3 and elevated sodium and chloride levels typical of deep-source thermal systems. The spring has attracted visitors since settlement of the Cache Valley, and its reliable high-volume flow has made it a landmark along the narrows for generations.
Maple Grove Campground sits 2 miles away with 12 first-come, first-served sites at five dollars per vehicle per night and a 14-day stay limit. The campground has vault toilets, fire rings, and a boat ramp but no trash service, so pack everything out. The spring itself is roadside, just 300 feet from Oneida Narrows Road. Do not touch the source water directly; it causes severe burns.
Is Maple Grove Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Maple Grove Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
24°Jan
27°Feb
36°Mar
42°Apr
52°May
65°Jun
74°Jul
73°Aug
63°Sep
48°Oct
34°Nov
23°Dec
Annual Precip: 22.0 inAnnual Snow: 82.6 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 23°F · Water 172°F · +149° contrast
JanuaryAir 24°F · Water 172°F · +148° contrast
FebruaryAir 27°F · Water 172°F · +145° contrast
December offers 51°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
168.8°F
(76.0°C)Measured May 10, 1972
Water ChemistrySampled 1972-05-10
The water at Maple Grove Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.3). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Campground rules and regulations are posted at the site. There are no dumpsters on site, visitors must pack in and out their trash.
Campsites: 12 developed sites--- At this time, there is not a reservation system in place for the campsites. Campsites are on a first come first serve basis.
Overnight Camping Fees: $5.00 per vehicle/ per night
This site is equipped picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, horseshoe pits, and boat ramp with a dock. There is no Day-use allowed and facilities a...
What is the water temperature at Maple Grove Hot Springs?
Maple Grove Hot Springs has a water temperature of 172°F (78°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Maple Grove Hot Springs located?
Maple Grove Hot Springs is located in Franklin County, Idaho at 4,900 feet elevation, near Preston. Coordinates: 42.3080°N, 111.7070°W.
How do I get to Maple Grove Hot Springs?
Maple Grove Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Oneida Narrows Road (297 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Maple Grove Hot Springs?
Yes, Maple Grove Campground is located nearby (2.1 miles away). $5/vehicle/night.
What minerals are in the water at Maple Grove Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.3 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Maple Grove Hot Springs?
The water at Maple Grove Hot Springs reaches 172°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 Maple Grove Hot Springs crowded?
Maple Grove Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Maple Grove Hot Springs?
Essentials for Maple Grove 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.
