• Loftus Hot Springs is a geothermal oasis near the Middle Fork Boise River
• Features two primitive pools and a hot mineral shower
Loftus Hot Springs is one of many hot springs emerging along the Middle Fork of the Boise River just 50 miles northeast of Boise and 33 miles west of Atlanta. This is a perfect spot to relax and take thermal dip while enjoying a scenic view of the river and surrounding woods of the Boise National Forest.
The hot springs consist of two volunteer-built pools located on a hillside just above Middle Fork Boise River Road. The upper grotto pool receives water from a small hot waterfall. The temperature is about 110°F and can vary depending on weather conditions. The water from the top pool cascades down to the second pool and cools down to 104°F. The pools have sandy bottoms, lined with boulders and reinforced with mortar.
The top pool might be too hot for summers but just perfect for the winter months.
Also, there is a pool on the river bank just below the road. However, the water temperature of about 75°F during summer doesn't provide the best option for soaking.
Please, pack all your trash and leave no trace behind!
Caution. Watch out for poison oak along the river bank and around the hot springs.
Loftus is open year-round. The graded road to the springs is narrow and becomes one lane in some places as well as it can be washboarded, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. The weather is usually good from May through the end of September. In the winter, the road conditions can be unsafe. Please, keep in mind that there is no cell service at this location.
The hot springs are 1.5 miles east of Troutdale Campground and four miles west of Ninemeyer Campground.
Twin Springs Resort, Sheep Creek Bridge Hot Springs, Pete Creek Hot Springs, and Smith Cabin Hot Springs are nearby.
Loftus Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 50 miles northeast of Boise • Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Accommodations: Troutdale and Ninemeyer Campgrounds
Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: A high clearance vehicle is recommended
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 3,600 ft (1,100 m)
Water T° (source): 110°F (43°C)
Water T° (upper pools): 100-110°F (38-43°C)
Odor: None
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Directions to Loftus Hot Springs
From Boise,
- Travel east on Highway 21 to Mores Creek Bridge
- Cross the bridge and turn right onto Spring Shores Road/Middle Fork Boise River Road toward Atlanta
- Continue 34 miles on Middle Fork Boise River Road to the destination on the left.