Pine Flat Hot Springs erupts at 138 degrees Fahrenheit on Forest Service land in Boise National Forest, just 110 meters from Banks Lowman Road. USGS readings of 59.5 degrees Celsius confirm the powerful thermal output. The water registers 91 degrees above the local ambient average, one of the largest temperature differentials in the region.
The spring sits at 3,760 feet elevation along the South Fork Payette River corridor, where steep canyon walls of weathered granite rise on both sides. Whitewater rafters and kayakers pass regularly during summer months. Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir shade portions of the riverbank, and the air carries the sulfur-mineral scent typical of high-temperature alkaline springs. Pine Flats Campground lies just 300 meters away, making this an easy walk from camp. The river's cold water provides natural mixing opportunities.
History of Pine Flat Hot Springs
At 138 degrees Fahrenheit, Pine Flat ranks among Idaho's hotter accessible springs. The pH of 9.2, elevated sodium at 75 mg/L, and negligible calcium indicate deep circulation through the Idaho Batholith's granitic core. The Banks-Lowman corridor follows a major fault zone that channels geothermal fluids to the surface at multiple points. Gold miners worked this stretch of the Boise River basin through the 1860s, and the road itself was built partly to service mining claims.
Source temperature of 138 degrees Fahrenheit is dangerously hot and requires substantial cooling or mixing with river water before any contact. Pine Flats Campground accepts reservations and sits within walking distance. The Banks-Lowman Highway provides year-round paved access. Idaho City lies a short drive east for supplies. Check current fire restrictions, as the area has experienced recent wildfire activity.
Is Pine Flat Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Pine Flat Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 32.8 in
Annual Snow: 126.2 in
December
Air 26°F · Water 138°F · +112° contrast
January
Air 28°F · Water 138°F · +110° contrast
February
Air 31°F · Water 138°F · +107° contrast
December offers 47°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
139.1°F
(59.5°C)
Measured Feb 27, 1979
The water at Pine Flat Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.2).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Overview
Pine Flats Campground is located a few miles west of Lowman, Idaho, along the Banks-Lowman Highway at an elevation of 3,700 feet. Visitors enjoy rafting, kayaking and fishing on the South Fork Payette River, and soaking in the hot springs at the river's edge.Recreation
The South Fork Payette River flows next to the site, down a small hill, and offers trout fishing, rafting and kayaking. The Danskin River Access area is 5 miles west of the campground.
A 1/4-mile nature trail begins i...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Pine Flats (Id)
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
25 miles from Idaho City, ID
USGS Quad: PINE FLAT 7.5 · PP 492: 77.0 · NOAA: 38.0 · AMS Map: CHALLIS
What is the water temperature at Pine Flat Hot Springs?
Pine Flat Hot Springs has a water temperature of 138°F (59°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Pine Flat Hot Springs located?
Pine Flat Hot Springs is located in Boise County, Idaho at 3,720 feet elevation, near Idaho City. Coordinates: 44.0620°N, 115.6850°W.
How do I get to Pine Flat Hot Springs?
Pine Flat Hot Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Banks Lowman Road (362 ft from the road).
Is Pine Flat Hot Springs free to visit?
Pine Flat Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Pine Flat Hot Springs?
Yes, Pine Flats (Id) is located nearby (0.2 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Pine Flat Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.2 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Pine Flat Hot Springs?
At 138°F, Pine Flat Hot Springs 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 Pine Flat Hot Springs crowded?
Pine Flat Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Pine Flat Hot Springs?
Essentials for Pine Flat 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.