Cook Creek Hot Spring
Cook Creek Hot Spring flows at 97 degrees Fahrenheit in the Wallowa National Forest, accessible only by a 3.5-mile hike from Cold Springs Road. The spring sits on federally managed national forest land with open public access, emerging in rugged canyon terrain where it flows 42.6 degrees above ambient temperature.
Located in steep canyon country near the Oregon-Idaho border, the spring occupies forested slopes at the confluence of multiple drainage systems. Wallowa National Forest encompasses the area, with ponderosa pine and Douglas fir covering north-facing slopes while south-facing exposures support bunchgrass and scattered timber. Annual precipitation totals 23.8 inches with 40.9 inches of snow, creating conditions wetter than surrounding lowlands. Basalt formations dominate the geology, with the Snake River canyon system cutting through layers of Columbia River Basalt to the east.
The spring's name derives from Cook Creek drainage, though documentation of early use remains scarce. The Wallowa National Forest designation in 1905 brought federal management to previously open rangeland. The remote location and difficult access limited development beyond occasional use by Forest Service personnel and backcountry hunters.
Plan for a full-day round trip given the 7-mile hike total and elevation changes. Summer and fall offer the most reliable access, with spring snowmelt making creek crossings challenging and winter conditions requiring avalanche awareness. Carry water purification equipment, as livestock grazing occurs in adjacent drainages. The 97-degree temperature provides comfortable soaking after the hike in. Coyote Campground offers primitive camping 19.3 kilometers away by road.
Is Cook Creek Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Coyote Campground is situated in an open pine forest and grassland. The site offers 6 tent/trailer sites. Primary activities include; camping (summer and during fall hunting season) and picnicking.