Skillern Hot Springs: Natural Hot Springs in Idaho

 With nearly 130 soakable hot springs (the most soakable hot springs of any state in the country), there are dozens of destinations to visit. However, places like Lava Hot Springs, Goldbug Hot Springs, and Kirkham Hot Springs can draw in quite a crowd. That’s why I love Skillern Hot Springs. This is a lesser-known, almost top-secret spring that is worth visiting. However, you’ll want to put on your hiking shoes because it’s not an easy journey to get here.

Skillern Hot Springs is tucked away in the Sawtooth National Forest. Some of the towns closest to this unique destination include Fairfield to the south and Ketchum to the east.

Map showing Skillern Hot Springs located in the Sawtooth National Forest, near Galena and Hailey, Idaho.

You’ll find the trailhead and parking area for this natural spring at Canyon Transfer Camp.

To visit this natural spring, plan a full-day adventure. Grab your hiking boots, swimsuit, and lots of water because you’ll have a six-mile journey ahead of you.

A wooden sign points to the Low Trail, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains under a clear blue sky.

The main trail splits into upper and lower trails. During the late summer months, I recommend the lower trail as you’ll cross the river multiple times, which provides some much-needed relief from the hot weather. The upper trail keeps you above the river and is best for when water levels are high.

No matter which trail you choose, steady your feet and take your time. The Skillern Hot Springs Trail is considered moderate in difficulty and you will climb more than 500 feet in elevation.

A dirt path winds through lush greenery alongside a river, with mountains in the background under a clear blue sky.

However, despite the distance, your journey is going to be a beautiful one. As you hike through the area, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views of forests and mountains.

Lush green mountainside with dense pine trees under a bright blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds.

The trail is also well maintained and easy to follow. You’ll encounter areas along the trail where you’ll find plenty of shade as well as areas where you’ll be grateful you brought sun protection.

A scenic mountain landscape with a winding path through lush greenery and tall trees under a clear blue sky.

Once you reach Skillern Hot Springs, you’ll fall in love with this natural spring and the surrounding area. There is a main pool, which features a rock wall and is fed by a small waterfall.

A rocky landscape with a small waterfall cascading into a pool, surrounded by trees and blue sky.

The spring is typically not too hot and may even be lukewarm when visiting. As always, make sure to check the temperature of the water before hopping in.

Skillern Hot Springs is large enough for several adults. Although, because of the distance and the popularity of these springs, it isn’t uncommon to have the pool all to yourself.

A person relaxes in a natural hot spring surrounded by rocky terrain and lush green trees under a cloudy sky.

Just remember to always keep the natural spring and the surrounding area in better condition when you leave than when you found it. Pack out all trash and do not damage the hot spring in any way.
A natural hot spring surrounded by rocks, near a flowing river and forested mountains under a clear blue sky.



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