• Sunbeam Hot Springs is a series of hot springs emerging at the Salmon River
Sunbeam Hot Springs is a series of hot springs in the scenic Salmon-Challis National Forest that emerge from the ground at the Salmon River. This is a fascinating and easily accessible geothermal area near Highway 75 amid the beautiful scenery of Central Idaho. You might even be lucky enough to get a glimpse of a deer, an elk, a bear, or an eagle, which tend to frequent the river and its surrounding area.
In the Sunbeam area, you will find a stone bathhouse dating back to 1937, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Initially, it was used as intended (i.e., as a bathhouse). After the restoration, it is now a historic site.
Sunbeam Hot Springs has a changing room with a restroom. The path to the changing room and down to the soaking pools is pretty accessible, with only three to four steps required to get there.
The hot springs are near the highway, so swimsuits are highly recommended.
Sunbeam Hot Springs Geothermal Experience
Extremely hot water emerges at up to 180°F (82°C) from multiple springs on the hill north of the highway. The water flows down the hill and under the highway to the river, filling up several primitive pools there.
All soaking pools are built by volunteers out of rocks and sand. Water temperature in the pools is highly dependent on the season, river levels, and the pool placement. You can always add water from the river to get the desired temperature.
Sunbeam Hot Springs Camping and Lodging
The nearest Upper O'Brien Campground is 3 miles east and has nine campsites on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground is open from May to September.
The Stanley area also offers plenty of comfortable accommodations to suit any budget, including Mountain Village Lodge.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Stanley
Mountain Village Lodge in Stanley which has its own hot springs
Sunbeam Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 12 miles northeast of Stanley • Idaho • USA
Best time: Spring through fall
Development: Undeveloped
Clothing: Recommended
Amenities: Changing room & toilets
Hiking distance: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Elevation: 6,000 ft (1,830 m)
Water T° (source): 180°F (82°C)
Water T° (tub): Varies
Odor: Sulfur smell
More Adventures
Directions to Sunbeam Hot Springs
From Stanley,
- Travel northeast on Highway 75 for about 12 miles to mile post 201, located 1 mile west of Sunbeam resort
- The destination will be on your right.
Park your car and take a short walk down to the pools.