• Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is a popular hike-in hot spring in the Clearwater National Forest
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is a popular day-use destination nestled in the Clearwater National Forest of southeastern Idaho, near the Montana border. The springs are situated along the east bank of Warm Springs Creek, providing a serene natural setting for soaking.
Due to its year-round popularity, the Forest Service has implemented a nighttime closure. The hot springs are open from 6 am to 8 pm daily.
To reach Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, park at the Warm Springs Park bridge trailhead, located 0.5 miles west of mile marker 152 on US 12. A large parking area with a vault restroom is available on the northern side of the road.
From the parking area, cross the bridge and follow the Warm Springs Creek Trail (Trail 49) for a scenic 1.4-mile hike up the valley to the springs. The trail is easy with a gradual incline and offers stunning mountainous views.
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs - Geothermal Water & Soaking
The hot springs has three distinct sources, each feeding a series of soaking pools:
The first "waterfall pool" is located right at the waterline in late summer with a temperature of around 105°F (41°C).
Farther from the river, there is a group of pools of various sizes. The largest pool with a big rock has a temperature of around 98°F (37°C).
Additional pools are located along the river's bank. The pool furthest from the river and closest to the trail is the hottest, fed directly by springs emerging at 110°F (43°C). The temperature of the other bank pools is generally lower as they are mixed with cooler river water.
During different times of the year, visitors may create new pools, though these might not survive the winter runoff.
Clothing is optional at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, but swimwear is common, especially given the mixed crowd of visitors.
Beyond Hot Springs: Other Adventures
Creeks and rivers in the Clearwater National Forest are great for gold panning and rockhounding.
The area is also popular for fishing and enjoying nature through wildlife watching and hiking the multiple trails of the national forest.
While you are visiting Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, swing by other soaking spots, including Weir Creek Hot Springs, Lolo Hot Springs Resort and Lolo Hot Springs Lodge.
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs Camping & Lodging
Several Forest Service campgrounds are located near Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, including:
- Jerry Johnson Campground between mileposts 150 and 151
- Whitehouse Campground at milepost 158.5.
The Lodge at Lolo Hot Springs, located about 30 miles northeast, offers a cozy and comfortable accommodation in a scenic mountainous area.
Additional lodging options are also available in Lolo, MT.
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 77 miles east of Kooskia • Northeastern Idaho • USA
Best time: From spring to fall, day-use only (6am-8pm)
Development: None
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: Vault toilet on the parking
Hiking distance: 1.4-mile one-way
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Elevation: 3,200 ft (975 m)
Water T° (source): 110-115°F (43-46°C)
Odor: None
More Adventures
Directions to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
From Kooskia,
- Take Highway US 12 and travel east for about 77 miles to milepost 151.5.
A large parking area will be on the left.
Cross the footbridge and follow the Warm Springs Creek Trail (Trail 49) for a short 1.4-mile hike up the valley to the springs.
GPS (Trailhead): N 46°28.477' W 114° 53.131' | 46.47474, -114.88549
GPS (Hot Spring): N 46°27.762' W 114° 52.388' | 46.46284, -114.87317