Terteling Hot Springs
Terteling Hot Springs surfaces at 106°F near Garden City in Ada County, one of the few thermal springs in Idaho's most populated metropolitan area. At 3,103 feet elevation and just 32 meters from the nearest road, this roadside spring provides easy access in the urban fringe of the Boise valley.
The spring sits in the Boise foothills transition zone where sagebrush steppe gives way to irrigated valley bottomland. Owning to its low elevation and valley position, the area receives only 17.2 inches of annual precipitation and 27 inches of snow, with mild annual temperatures averaging 52.5°F. The Boise River flows nearby through a corridor of cottonwood and riparian vegetation, while the surrounding foothills climb toward the Boise Front.
Specific historical records for Terteling Hot Springs are scarce. The name likely derives from the Terteling family, prominent Boise-area ranchers and business operators since the early 20th century. The spring's proximity to Garden City and Boise means it has existed alongside suburban development for decades, though its current access status and any improvements are not well documented in public records.
The spring is accessible year-round given its low-elevation, valley-floor location and proximity to Boise. Summers are hot and dry; winter temperatures are moderate by Idaho standards. Shafer Butte Campground sits about 15 km away at 7,000 feet if overnight camping is desired. Confirm current access conditions locally, as land ownership and restrictions near the Boise metro area may limit availability.
Is Terteling Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Shafer Butte is located atop the scenic Boise Ridge Mountains, near Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Visitors enjoy hiking and biking on various trails in the surrounding area, and simply relaxing and taking in the area's beautiful views.Recreation Popular activities in the area include hiking and mountain biking, the Mores Mountain Trail begins in the campground. This 2-mile interpretive nature trail is family friendly. Facilities Shafer Butte con...