Owen Cabin Hot Spring demands a five-mile backcountry hike to reach 133°F waters at 5,080 feet in Challis National Forest, Custer County. Sitting nearly 90 degrees above ambient air temperature with strongly alkaline water (pH 9.3), this is a destination for experienced backcountry travelers willing to earn their soak.
The trail follows Loon Creek drainage into one of central Idaho's most remote valleys, where granite peaks and dense conifer forest close in on all sides. At 5,080 feet, the spring sits in country that receives over eight feet of snow annually and averages just 43°F year-round, meaning the access window is narrow and the contrast between hot water and cold air is dramatic. The Loon Creek corridor is prime wildlife habitat, and encounters with elk, deer, and black bear are common along the approach.
History of Owen Cabin Hot Spring
The spring taps the same deep Idaho Batholith system that feeds many of Custer County's thermal features, with USGS-confirmed temperatures of 65°C and alkaline chemistry characteristic of long-residence-time circulation through Cretaceous granite. Sodium dominates at 70 mg/L with sulfate at 43 mg/L, while calcium remains nearly absent at 2 mg/L. The name references an old mining-era cabin, as this drainage saw prospecting activity during Idaho's 19th-century gold rushes.
This is a committed backcountry trip requiring five miles of hiking from Loon Creek Road. Plan for an overnight with full gear. The nearest developed camping is Custer #1 Campground, nearly 18 miles away near the historic Custer townsite with its mining-era museum open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Snow blocks access from roughly November through June. The 133°F source requires careful temperature testing before any water contact.
Is Owen Cabin Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Owen Cabin Hot Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 21.9 in
Annual Snow: 99.0 in
December
Air 22°F · Water 133°F · +111° contrast
January
Air 25°F · Water 133°F · +108° contrast
February
Air 27°F · Water 133°F · +106° contrast
December offers 47°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
149.0°F
(65.0°C)
Measured Jul 30, 1979
The water at Owen Cabin Hot Spring is alkaline (pH 9.3).
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
This campground is along the Custer Motorway just above the townsite of Custer, a boom town during the late 1800's. Visit the museum, open 9 - 5 Memorial Day through Labor Day. Facilities include 6 sites with picnic tables and fire rings with cooking grills. Campground has a vault toilet and can accommodate trailers and motorhomes up to 32 feet long.
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 Custer #1 Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
27 miles from Challis, ID
USGS Quad: ROCK CREEK 7.5 · PP 492: 56.0 · NOAA: 9.0 · AMS Map: CHALLIS
What is the water temperature at Owen Cabin Hot Spring?
Owen Cabin Hot Spring has a water temperature of 133°F (56°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Owen Cabin Hot Spring located?
Owen Cabin Hot Spring is located in Custer County, Idaho at 5,080 feet elevation, near Challis. Coordinates: 44.6520°N, 114.7340°W.
How do I get to Owen Cabin Hot Spring?
Owen Cabin Hot Spring has Hike road access, with the nearest road being Loon Creek Road (5.0 mi from the road).
Is Owen Cabin Hot Spring free to visit?
Owen Cabin Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Owen Cabin Hot Spring?
Yes, Custer #1 Campground is located nearby (17.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Owen Cabin Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.3 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Owen Cabin Hot Spring?
At 133°F, Owen Cabin 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 Owen Cabin Hot Spring crowded?
Owen Cabin Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Owen Cabin Hot Spring?
Essentials for Owen Cabin 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.