File:M 4411523 nw 11 060 20210930.tif — public domain
Pistol Creek Hot Springs demands commitment. Sitting nearly 2.8 miles from the nearest road at 5,100 feet in Boise National Forest, this backcountry spring rewards the hike with 115-degree Fahrenheit water. USGS readings actually register 64 degrees Celsius, suggesting the source runs substantially hotter than the original survey recorded.
The trail passes through dense mixed-conifer forest in the Middle Fork country, one of Idaho's most remote and rugged landscapes. Annual snowfall exceeds 10 feet at this elevation, and the mean temperature hovers around 43 degrees Fahrenheit. The surrounding terrain is steep, heavily timbered, and cut by deep drainages flowing toward the Middle Fork of the Boise River. Wildlife sightings are common, including elk, deer, and black bear. The spring emerges in a relatively sheltered draw where the thermal warmth supports a patch of unusually green vegetation.
History of Pistol Creek Hot Springs
The 64-degree Celsius USGS reading, significantly above the 115-degree Fahrenheit surface temperature, implies a deep and powerful heat source. Water chemistry shows extremely high pH of 9.6 and elevated sodium and sulfate, consistent with prolonged contact with granitic rock at depth. The spring sits within the broader Middle Fork geothermal system, where the Idaho Batholith's residual heat drives numerous thermal features. The Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness begins nearby.
This is a genuine backcountry destination requiring a multi-mile hike with elevation changes. Boundary Creek Campground, 22 kilometers away, serves as a staging point and accepts reservations during the Middle Fork float season. Bring a topographic map and be prepared for route-finding. Water at the source may exceed safe soaking temperature and requires testing before entry. Best accessed mid-June through September when trails are clear of snow.
Is Pistol Creek Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Pistol Creek Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 26.5 in
Annual Snow: 126.2 in
December
Air 22°F · Water 115°F · +93° contrast
January
Air 25°F · Water 115°F · +91° contrast
February
Air 27°F · Water 115°F · +88° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
147.2°F
(64.0°C)
Measured Aug 01, 1979
The water at Pistol Creek Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.6).
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
Boundary Creek Campground is located at the edge of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, adjacent to the boat launch for the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho. The site generally provides overnight camping for boaters waiting to launch the next day on their permit to float the Middle Fork.
Of the 15 campsites, 5 can be reserved during the high-use season (June 15-Aug. 15); the remaining 10 are first-come, first-served. Outside of those dates, all 15 sites are first-...
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 Boundary Creek Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
42 miles from Cascade, ID
USGS Quad: GREYHOUND RIDGE 15 · NOAA: 9.0 · AMS Map: CHALLIS
What is the water temperature at Pistol Creek Hot Springs?
Pistol Creek Hot Springs has a water temperature of 115°F (46°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Pistol Creek Hot Springs located?
Pistol Creek Hot Springs is located in Valley County, Idaho at 5,100 feet elevation, near Cascade. Coordinates: 44.7210°N, 115.2070°W.
How do I get to Pistol Creek Hot Springs?
Pistol Creek Hot Springs has Hike road access (2.8 mi from the road).
Is Pistol Creek Hot Springs free to visit?
Pistol Creek Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Pistol Creek Hot Springs?
Yes, Boundary Creek Campground is located nearby (13.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Pistol Creek Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.6 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Pistol Creek Hot Springs?
At 115°F, Pistol Creek 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 Pistol Creek Hot Springs crowded?
Pistol Creek Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Pistol Creek Hot Springs?
Essentials for Pistol Creek 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.