Heise Hot Springs is a modern, family-friendly resort in the Upper Snake River Valley, about 23 miles northeast of Idaho Falls. In addition to geothermal soaking pools, the resort features a golf course, zip line, pizza restaurant, and other amenities.

Long before European settlers arrived, Native peoples lived along the Upper Snake River Valley, hunting, fishing, and bathing in these very hot springs.

In 1890, Richard Camor Heise, an immigrant from Germany, visited the area and tried treating his severe rheumatism with hot mineral water. The waters eased his pain, which, in turn, inspired him to settle nearby. He soon built a store, a hotel, and public pools supplied by the springs. All that was done with the help of Elof Nelson, a local builder and engineer who designed a clean-water system.

As roads improved and the surrounding area developed, Heise Hot Springs became a popular destination for those seeking recreation and natural health benefits.

Today, the resort continues that tradition as a full-service getaway where visitors can stay overnight or drop in for the day to enjoy the soothing mineral waters and the pleasant outdoors.

Heise Hot Springs Water & Soaking

Geothermal mineral water comes from the spring at 126°F (52°C) and is piped into four pools.

The main soaking pool is kept at 104°F (40°C)—perfect for relaxation.

A family pool, shallow and comfortably warm at 92°F (33°C), welcomes all ages.

The summer swimming pool, open from Memorial Weekend through Labor Day, stays around 84°F (29°C) and features a 350-foot waterslide that empties into a separate splash pool.

It is a family resort—swimsuits are required in all pools. The mineral water is lightly treated with hydrogen sulfide to maintain clarity and comfort.

Things to Do at Heise Hot Springs: Beyond Hot Springs

Heise Hot Springs offers swimming, lifeguard, and Water Safety Instructor (WSI) classes for all ages.

The resort also features a golf course and zip line, both open seasonally (closed during winter). Please note that the zip line and golf course are operated by separate businesses, and their fees are not included in your hot springs admission.

The Snake River flows right next to the resort, providing excellent opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Its native cutthroat trout are prized among anglers and considered some of the best in the world.

At mealtime, enjoy a burger and milkshake at the snack bar, or head to the resort’s well-known pizza parlor for a hearty meal.

Location: 23 miles northeast of Idaho Falls • Eastern Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Swimming pools, soaking pool, water slide
Clothing: Mandatory
Amenities & Services: Cabins, campground, snack bar, restaurant, zipline, golf course

Hiking distance: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use: Yes, with fees

Elevation: 5,000 ft (1,524 m)

Water T° (source):126°F (52°C)
Water T° (soaking pool): 104°F (40°C)
Water T° (family pool): 92°F (33°C)
Water T° (swimming pool): 84°F (29°C)
Springs type: Sodium Chloride
Odor: None
Chemical used: Slightly with hydrogen sulfide gas

Average dissolved solids: 5,700 Mg/L

Mineral Content:

Sodium Chloride - 3,078 Mg/L
Sodium Sulphate - 855 Mg/L
Calcium Carbonate - 855 Mg/L
Silica - 291 Mg/L
Magnesium Chloride - 257 Mg/L
Sodium Carbonate - 257 Mg/L
Potassium Sulphate - 137 Mg/L