• Kirkham Hot Springs is a scenic geothermal area just off Highway 21
• The site features multiple hot pools and waterfalls at the river's edge

Kirkham Hot Springs sits on the South Fork of the Payette River across Highway 21, five miles east of Lowman. This spectacular recreation area and interpretive site for volcanic activity allows not only soaking in the healing mineral water or take the hot shower in a river's cave but also let visitors to learn about the hot springs geology and local history.

If you driving from Lowman, you can stop at a large pullout on the right, just before the Kirkham parking area, and enjoy the scenic view of colorful hills with hot water coming from multiple sources, steaming waterfalls cascading down to pools, and the river rushing its turquoise water over rocks.

If you want to see this fabulous geothermal area closer and soak in its mineral water, travel 400 feet east to the bridge across the river. The bridge is closed for vehicles at this time. The 0.3-mile trail leading to the waterfalls and soaking pools starts at the bridge and runs through the site to a viewing platform and then down to the river. Be careful walking down to the hot springs. Rock surfaces are uneven and can be slippery when wet.

There are only vault toilets at the parking and no drinking water. There is a beautiful picnic area shaded with Ponderosa pines.

Kirkham Hot Springs Experience

Kirkham mineral water emerges from numerous seeping spots, creating small puddles and larger pools and even cascading as a waterfall. Water comes out of the source at temperatures between 120°F (49°C) and 135°F (57°C) and flows into the multiple man-made soaking pools. The pool temperatures range from 95°F to 110°F.

You will see the first pools at a picnic area near the bridge. Other two small pools at the viewing platform are good for small children. However, hot waterfalls with multiple rock-and-sand pools by the river are considered the best spot at Kirkham Hot Springs.

The river might wash off some bank pools during the high water season.

Please remember that nude soaking and soap at the springs are prohibited in the Lowman Ranger District of the Boise National Forest. Pets should be leashed at all times kept away from the hot spring pools and runoff areas. No glass containers are allowed at or near the spring.

Note: This is a popular soaking spot and can get crowded on the summer weekends and holidays.

Lowman Ranger District is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One of its premier hiking routes, the 35-mile Kirkham Ridge Trail, begins just a quarter-mile away. The South Fork Payette River also offers exciting whitewater rafting, kayaking, and trout fishing opportunities.

Traveling along Highway 21 and 17 — also known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway and the Banks-Lowman Highway—you’ll enjoy scenic vistas, wildlife viewing, historical kiosks, numerous trailheads, and many natural hot springs. Head west from Kirkham Hot Springs to find Haven Hot Springs, Pine Flats Hot Springs, and Campground Hot Springs, all easily accessible from the road. Going east toward Stanley, you’ll discover more geothermal gems like Bonneville Hot Springs, Sacajawea Hot Springs, plus several others near Stanley.

Location: 4 miles east of Lowman • Central Idaho • USA
Open: All year, daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Mandatory
Amenities: Vault toilet

Hiking distance: 0.3 miles
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes or or Interagency Passes
Managed by: US Forest Service

Elevation: 4,000 ft (1,225 m)