At 190°F, the source water at Vulcan Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:VulcanHotSpringsIdahoSource13Sep2016.jpg — cc by-sa 4.0
Vulcan Hot Springs reaches 190°F, making it one of the hottest surface thermal features in Idaho. USGS-confirmed at 88.5°C with a pH of 9.1 and sodium-dominant chemistry (95 mg/L). Located at 5,550 feet in the Boise National Forest, it requires a roughly one-kilometer walk from Stolle Meadows Road.
The spring occupies a forested mountain setting in Valley County along the South Fork of the Salmon River drainage. At 5,550 feet, dense stands of lodgepole pine and subalpine fir cover the surrounding slopes. Annual snowfall averages 192.7 inches, creating a prolonged winter season, while 39.1 inches of precipitation keeps the forest floor damp through spring. The average annual air temperature of 41°F reflects the elevation and latitude. Steam plumes rise visibly from the spring area, particularly in cold weather.
History of Vulcan Hot Springs
Vulcan Hot Springs draws its name from the Roman god of fire, an apt reference given its extreme temperature. The spring has long attracted backcountry soakers who have constructed informal rock-and-log pools downstream where thermal water mixes with cold creek water to reach tolerable temperatures. The site remains undeveloped and managed by the US Forest Service. Stolle Meadows Cabin, a reservable historic rental 3.3 km away, dates from the early Forest Service era.
Road access to Stolle Meadows Road is seasonal, typically open June through October. In winter, the 6.5-mile route requires skiing or snowmobiling. Source water at 190°F is near boiling and extremely dangerous; only use pools well downstream where mixing with cold water has occurred. Average snowfall tops 16 feet, so bring appropriate gear. Stolle Meadows Cabin is reservable for overnight stays. Confirm road and trail conditions with the Cascade Ranger District before departure.
Is Vulcan Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Vulcan Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
24°Jan
25°Feb
31°Mar
36°Apr
43°May
54°Jun
66°Jul
65°Aug
55°Sep
41°Oct
29°Nov
22°Dec
Annual Precip: 39.1 inAnnual Snow: 192.7 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 22°F · Water 190°F · +168° contrast
JanuaryAir 24°F · Water 190°F · +166° contrast
FebruaryAir 25°F · Water 190°F · +165° contrast
December offers 43°F more contrast than August
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
191.3°F
(88.5°C)Measured Jun 02, 1980
Water ChemistrySampled 1980-06-02
The water at Vulcan Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 9.1).
Overview
Historic Stolle Meadows Cabin is a single-room dwelling that has been restored to near original condition. it's located in a beautiful setting near a variety of recreational activities. The cabin is available year-round. The route to the cabin is drivable in warmer months but is only accessible by a 6.5-mile ski or snowmobile trek in the winter. Many conveniences are provided for a comfortable and pleasant experience, but guests may want to bring some additional gear and supplies.
Re...
What is the water temperature at Vulcan Hot Springs?
Vulcan Hot Springs has a water temperature of 190°F (88°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Vulcan Hot Springs located?
Vulcan Hot Springs is located in Valley County, Idaho at 5,550 feet elevation, near Cascade. Coordinates: 44.5680°N, 115.6950°W.
How do I get to Vulcan Hot Springs?
Vulcan Hot Springs has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Stolle Meadows Road (0.6 mi from the road).
Is Vulcan Hot Springs free to visit?
Vulcan Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Vulcan Hot Springs?
Yes, Stolle Meadows Cabin is located nearby (2.1 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Vulcan Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 9.1 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Vulcan Hot Springs?
The water at Vulcan Hot Springs reaches 190°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Vulcan Hot Springs crowded?
Vulcan Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Vulcan Hot Springs?
Essentials for Vulcan 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.
Temperature
190°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp190°F (88°C)
Avg Air Temp41°F
Above Ambient+149°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessShort Walk
Nearest RoadStolle Meadows Road
Distance to Road0.6 mi
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyUS Forest Service
DesignationNational Forest
UnitBoise National Forest
ManagerUS Forest Service
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use
