Weatherby Hot Spring
Weatherby Hot Spring flows at 113°F from the Boise National Forest at 4,445 feet elevation. It sits 441 meters from Middle Fork Road, requiring a short walk through forest to reach. Open to the public on Forest Service land under GAP status 3 protection. The spring runs 68°F above the local average annual air temperature.
The spring lies in the Middle Fork drainage of the Boise River in Boise County, set among dense mixed-conifer forest on steep mountain terrain. At 4,445 feet, the surrounding slopes receive 149.8 inches of annual snowfall and 32.1 inches of precipitation, producing heavy winter snowpacks that persist well into spring. The Middle Fork Road corridor follows the river through a narrow canyon with exposed rock walls. Douglas fir, grand fir, and lodgepole pine dominate the forest canopy, with shrubby understory along the creek margins.
Specific historical documentation for Weatherby Hot Spring is sparse. The name likely references an early settler or miner in the Middle Fork area, which saw prospecting activity during Idaho's mining booms. The US Forest Service manages the site within the Boise National Forest. Deer Park Cabin, a reservable rental 12.8 km away, was originally built as a ranger guard station in 1913, rebuilt by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, and retains its Depression-era appearance.
Best access is from late spring through early fall after snowmelt clears the trail and road. The 441-meter walk from Middle Fork Road crosses forested terrain; wear sturdy footwear. Water at 113°F is hot enough to cause discomfort on direct contact. Deer Park Cabin is reservable and reachable by standard passenger vehicle, though roads can be rough. Idaho City provides the nearest full services. Heavy snowfall makes winter access impractical without ski or snowmobile equipment.
Is Weatherby Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Overview This site was originally established as Deer Park Ranger Guard Station in 1913, and a cabin was built here in 1917. This cabin, along with many others in Boise National Forest, was replaced in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Deer Park Cabin looks much the same today as it did in the 1930s.Guests can drive to Deer Park Cabin in two-wheel drive passenger cars or trucks, although the roads may occasionally be rough. Many creature comforts are provided, but guests may need...