At 140°F, the source water at White Licks Hot Spring 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.
White Licks Hot Spring produces 140°F water with exceptionally high mineral content: sodium at 420 mg/L, sulfate at 660 mg/L, and chloride at 150 mg/L. It sits at 4,870 feet in Adams County, just 11 meters from National Forest Development Road 186, making it one of Idaho's most mineralized and most accessible roadside thermal features.
The spring emerges in the forested mountains of west-central Idaho near the town of Council, where mixed conifer forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the surrounding slopes. Annual precipitation reaches nearly 36 inches with heavy snowfall averaging 145 inches, creating a lush mountain environment relative to the drier valleys below. The terrain is steep and creek-cut, with the spring discharging into local drainages. Lake Cascade and its surrounding recreation area lie to the east.
History of White Licks Hot Spring
The name likely references the mineral deposits left by the spring's heavily mineralized water, which historically attracted wildlife. The spring has not been commercially developed despite its roadside location. USGS measurements recorded temperatures at 70.5°C, confirming the historical 140°F figure. The extremely high dissolved mineral load, particularly the sulfate and sodium concentrations, may reflect contact with evaporite deposits at depth.
The water at 140°F is dangerously hot at the source and requires significant cooling before any contact. Mineral deposits around the spring can be slippery. The Amanita Campground at Lake Cascade, 8.3 kilometers away, is reservable and offers lake access for fishing and boating. Snow closes many forest roads from November through May. Check road conditions with the Payette National Forest ranger station before visiting in shoulder seasons.
Is White Licks Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
White Licks Hot Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
25°Jan
26°Feb
33°Mar
38°Apr
47°May
57°Jun
69°Jul
68°Aug
58°Sep
44°Oct
32°Nov
23°Dec
Annual Precip: 35.8 inAnnual Snow: 145.0 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 23°F · Water 140°F · +117° contrast
JanuaryAir 25°F · Water 140°F · +115° contrast
FebruaryAir 26°F · Water 140°F · +114° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than August
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
158.9°F
(70.5°C)Measured Jul 18, 1991
Water ChemistrySampled 1972-06-29
The water at White Licks Hot Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.6). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Amanita Campground is located next to scenic Lake Cascade in west-central Idaho. It is near the town of Donnelly, at an elevation of 4,850 feet. Boating, fishing, swimming and hiking are popular activities in this scenic region.
Recreation
Lake Cascade offers excellent opportunities for boating, water skiing, canoeing, windsurfing and sailing. Anglers enjoy casting for rainbow trout, coho salmon, smallmouth bass and perch. A boat ramp is located at the neighboring Rainbow Point Campg...
What is the water temperature at White Licks Hot Spring?
White Licks Hot Spring has a water temperature of 140°F (60°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is White Licks Hot Spring located?
White Licks Hot Spring is located in Adams County, Idaho at 4,870 feet elevation, near Council. Coordinates: 44.6790°N, 116.2310°W.
How do I get to White Licks Hot Spring?
White Licks Hot Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being National Forest Development Road 186 (36 ft from the road).
Can I camp near White Licks Hot Spring?
Yes, Amanita is located nearby (5.2 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at White Licks Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.6 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at White Licks Hot Spring?
At 140°F, White Licks Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is White Licks Hot Spring crowded?
White Licks Hot Spring is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to White Licks Hot Spring?
Essentials for White Licks Hot Spring: 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.