• Chattanooga Hot Springs is a primitive hot spring at the Middle Fork of the Boise River
Chattanooga Hot Springs is one of many hot springs along the Middle Fork of the Boise River located 1.5 miles away from the historic mining town of Atlanta. This remote destination, surrounded by the mighty trees of Boise National Forest, offers a great soaking experience in nature with a spectacular view of the Sawtooth Wilderness.
The hot spring features a large pool built by volunteers at the foot of a cliff. The hot water comes out of the geothermal cliff at a temperature of 120° F. Then it runs 100 feet down to the rock-and-sand bottom pool, cooling down to 100-110° F or above depending on the season. It is open all year long.
The steep cliff path runs 100 feet down to the pool. The pool becomes visible from the upper part of the trail.
Clothing is optional at the hot spring. This is a remote location with no services available. Power Plant Recreation Area and Atlanta Hot Springs are located nearby.
Besides hot springs bathing, the Atlanta area offers a wide range of outdoor activities including, hiking, swimming, mountain biking, fishing, nature viewing, snowmobiling, and much more.
The closest store and lodging can be found in Atlanta. There is no gas station in town, so make sure to fuel up before you head there.
Cell phone connection is unstable in the area. Roads here are unpaved and road conditions change seasonally with some roads being closed entirely. 4WD is recommended. Pack all your trash and leave no trace behind!
Chattanooga Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 129 miles east of Boise • Central Idaho • USA
Open: 365 days a year
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Accommodations: Power Plant and Riverside Campgrounds, Beaver Lodge
Hiking distance: 100 feet
Road Access: A 4WD high clearance vehicle is recommended
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 5,300 ft (1,615 m)
Water T° (source): 120°F (49°C)
Water T° (pool): 100-110°F (38-43°C)
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Directions to Chattanooga Hot Springs
Atlanta can be accessed via unpaved forest roads only. With this in mind, a 4WD high clearance vehicle is recommended to navigate the area. Some roads are closed during the winter months. Check directions here.
From Atlanta,
- Follow 1.2 miles east on Main Street/Middle Fork Boise River Road
- Just before the Frog Pond at Atlanta Hot Springs turn left and go 0.2 miles to the end of the road.