File:M 4511445 nw 11 060 20211002.tif — public domain
Owl Creek Hot Springs sends 122°F water to the surface at 3,760 feet in Lemhi County, requiring a 1.7-mile hike from the nearest road near Salmon, Idaho. The sodium-rich waters (120 mg/L) carry nearly 75 degrees of thermal contrast above ambient air, marking a significant geothermal source in the Salmon River drainage.
The hike follows Owl Creek into a side canyon off the main Salmon River corridor, climbing through terrain where ponderosa pine and Douglas fir shade the drainage bottom while open grass slopes rise on either side. Lemhi County receives over 23 inches of precipitation and more than seven feet of snow annually at this elevation, creating a lush riparian corridor along the creek. The spring emerges where fault-fractured bedrock meets the creek's erosional channel, and mineral staining marks the discharge area.
History of Owl Creek Hot Springs
The spring rises along one of the numerous faults that slice through the Salmon River Mountains, channeling deep-sourced water through Precambrian metamorphic rock and younger intrusive granite. Its chemistry shows elevated sodium (120 mg/L) and sulfate (63 mg/L) with minimal calcium and magnesium, a signature of prolonged water-rock interaction at depth. The 51°C USGS-measured temperature and alkaline pH of 8.4 are consistent with other fault-controlled thermal systems in the Lemhi Range.
The 1.7-mile hike requires moderate fitness and basic trail navigation. Wendover Campground along the Wild and Scenic Lochsa River is the nearest developed option at about 19 miles, with 27 sites in old-growth pine forest. The spring is best accessed from mid-June through October when snow has cleared. Test the water carefully before entering, as 122°F can cause burns with prolonged contact. Carry all water and provisions.
Is Owl Creek Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Owl Creek Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 23.1 in
Annual Snow: 86.4 in
December
Air 24°F · Water 122°F · +98° contrast
January
Air 27°F · Water 122°F · +95° contrast
February
Air 30°F · Water 122°F · +92° contrast
December offers 49°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
123.8°F
(51.0°C)
Measured Aug 06, 1980
The water at Owl Creek Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.4).
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
Wendover Campground is situated on stretch of land along the Wild and Scenic Lochsa River off the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway and All American Road (US Highway 12) at mile post 158.2. With 27 campsites all positioned within a mature, moss covered pine forest and centered around a small stream, this campground offers a serene spot for camping, picnicking, fishing, hiking, nature viewing and most importantly, relaxing. Hosts are provided when campground is open. The Campground will accomod...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Wendover Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: SHOUP 15 · PP 492: 51.0 · Circ 790: 104.0 · NOAA: 3.0 · AMS Map: ELK CITY
What is the water temperature at Owl Creek Hot Springs?
Owl Creek Hot Springs has a water temperature of 122°F (50°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Owl Creek Hot Springs located?
Owl Creek Hot Springs is located in Lemhi County, Idaho at 3,760 feet elevation, near Salmon. Coordinates: 45.3440°N, 114.4630°W.
How do I get to Owl Creek Hot Springs?
Owl Creek Hot Springs has Hike road access (1.7 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Owl Creek Hot Springs?
Yes, Wendover Campground is located nearby (19.4 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Owl Creek Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.4 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Owl Creek Hot Springs?
At 122°F, Owl Creek Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Owl Creek Hot Springs crowded?
Owl Creek Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Owl Creek Hot Springs?
Essentials for Owl Creek 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.