Pincock Hot Springs, known locally as Green Canyon Hot Springs, flows at 111 degrees Fahrenheit in Fremont County, Idaho, near Ashton. Its water chemistry stands out with 130 mg/L calcium, 30 mg/L magnesium, and 320 mg/L sulfate, creating mineral-rich water at a near-neutral pH of 6.7 that distinguishes it from Idaho's typically alkaline springs.
A 282-meter walk separates the spring from the nearest road at 5,820 feet elevation, enough distance to muffle traffic while keeping access manageable. The setting sits in the upper Snake River Plain's transition zone where high desert gives way to forested foothills. Winter brings roughly 6.5 feet of snow annually, with average air temperatures around 42 degrees Fahrenheit. Yellowstone National Park lies to the northeast, and the Teton Range rises to the east. The volcanic plateau's basalt flows underlie the landscape, their dark rock visible in nearby canyon cuts.
History of Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs
The slightly acidic pH of 6.7 and high calcium-sulfate chemistry point to water interacting with Paleozoic carbonates and evaporites beneath the volcanic cover, a different geochemical path than the sodium-bicarbonate springs common elsewhere in Idaho. USGS measurements of 40.8 degrees Celsius track closely with historical records. The spring occupies a geologically active zone where the Yellowstone hotspot's thermal influence extends westward through buried fault networks.
The short walk in from the road takes about five minutes on mostly flat ground. Source water at 111 degrees Fahrenheit needs some cooling before comfortable soaking. Table Rock Campground is the nearest reservable option at roughly 22 kilometers away. Ashton provides basic supplies. The Yellowstone-Teton corridor offers extensive recreation options within an hour's drive.
Is Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 22.6 in
Annual Snow: 79.0 in
December
Air 20°F · Water 111°F · +91° contrast
January
Air 21°F · Water 111°F · +90° contrast
February
Air 24°F · Water 111°F · +88° contrast
December offers 49°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
105.4°F
(40.8°C)
Measured Sep 06, 1977
The water at Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs is slightly acidic (pH 6.7). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
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
Table Rock Campground is located in a small but scenic canyon near Kelly Canyon Ski Resort, approximately 30 miles from Idaho Falls, Idaho. Hiking, mountain biking and ATV riding are popular activities.Recreation
Hawley Gulch Trail begins at the campground, offering great opportunities for ATV enthusiasts, hikers and mountain bikers. Numerous forest roads and trails in the area allow ATV travel, hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking.Facilities
Table Rock is a large group campg...
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 Table Rock
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: WRIGHT CREEK 7.5 · PP 492: 153.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: DRIGGS
What is the water temperature at Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs?
Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs has a water temperature of 111°F (44°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs located?
Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs is located in Fremont County, Idaho at 5,820 feet elevation, near Ashton. Coordinates: 43.7910°N, 111.4350°W.
How do I get to Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs?
Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs?
Yes, Table Rock is located nearby (13.5 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 6.7 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs?
At 111°F, Pincock (Green Canyon) 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 Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs crowded?
Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs?
Essentials for Pincock (Green Canyon) Hot Springs: 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.