Taylor Springs
Taylor Springs surfaces at 68 degrees Fahrenheit near Victor in Teton County, running 26.7 degrees above ambient air at 6,092 feet elevation. The water chemistry stands out for its very low sodium at just 1.4 mg/L and low chloride at 1.1 mg/L, indicating a short, shallow circulation path.
The spring sits roughly 93 meters from South 4500 West road in the western shadow of the Teton Range. At this elevation, winters are long and snow accumulates to an average of 120 inches annually. The landscape transitions between irrigated ranch land in the valley floor and conifer-covered foothills rising toward the Tetons. The water emerges clear with a slightly alkaline pH of 7.7 and calcium-magnesium dominant chemistry that contrasts sharply with the sodium-dominant thermal springs found elsewhere in Idaho.
Taylor Springs represents a fundamentally different geothermal system than most Idaho hot springs. Its calcium-magnesium chemistry and near-ambient temperature suggest shallow circulation through Paleozoic limestone and dolomite rather than deep volcanic pathways. The Teton fault system, one of the most active normal faults in the Rocky Mountains, provides fracture permeability that allows even modestly heated groundwater to reach the surface.
Pine Creek Campground sits just 4 kilometers away with 10 first-come, first-served sites and restrooms. No host or services are available, and dispersed camping is allowed in the off-season. The spring is roadside and accessible in dry conditions. Heavy snow closes many Teton County roads from late November through April. The 68-degree water temperature is mild; this is not a soaking hot spring but a geothermally warmed feature worth visiting for its unusual chemistry.
Is Taylor Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
The water at Taylor Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.7).
The Pine Creek Campground has 10 single units and restroomsNo Host; No Services; Dispersed Camping allowed in off season