Photo by: Big Dubya
• Before forest fires, Vulcan Hot Springs used to be Idaho's largest wild geothermal pool
Vulcan Hot Springs in Idaho is a wild hot spring located in the beautiful Boise National Forest, about 32 miles from Cascade. It was once the largest natural hot springs pool in Idaho. The large water pool is now gone, and the area is covered with dirt and debris from forest fires.
It is, however, still a great place to hike. To reach Vulcan Hot Springs, follow a scenic 0.75-mile trail that begins at the edge of a primitive camping area near Stolle Meadows.
The path winds through thick pine and fir forest, crossing three rustic log footbridges over streams and hugging the banks of Warm Springs Creek. The trail is primarily flat but can occasionally be muddy, overgrown, or rocky, especially after rain.
You will be able to tell that the spring is nearby: the forest opens up, and you can smell a distinct sulfur scent in the air.
Vulcan Hot Springs - Geothermal Water & Soaking
Natural mineral water emerges from its hillside source at extremely hot temperatures, then flows down and cools.
Before the forest fires, there was a giant pool about 30 feet across. There is no pool now. Some visitors dig small pools for themselves, but we cannot, in good conscience, recommend soaking in them. Water temperatures can vary significantly and may become dangerously hot very quickly.
Things to Do near Vulcan Hot Springs
Those who appreciate the outdoors will enjoy the surroundings of Vulcan Hot Springs.
Hot Springs Soaking: The Warm Lake region has many other hot springs, including Trail Creek Hot Springs, Molly's Tubs, and Molly's Hot Springs.
Wildlife Watching: Deer, birds, and chipmunks are regularly sighted near where the pool once existed.
Fishing & Hiking: The South Fork Salmon River is a great fishing spot, and the Boise National Forest offers many hiking trails.
Winter Sports: If you visit in winter, be sure to bring snowshoes—the road is often covered in snow.
Vulcan Hot Springs Camping & Lodging
There is an unmarked camping area at the trailhead. It is primitive, with no amenities whatsoever—no bathrooms or trash cans—just wide-open space.
The closest Forest Service campground is Warm Lake Campground, about seven miles away.
For more comfortable accommodations, you can stay in Cascade.
Vulcan Hot Springs Idaho | Facts
Location: Boise National Forest • 32 miles northeast of Cascade • Idaho • USA
Best time: Spring through fall
Development: Wild
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: 0.75 mile one-way
Road access: Any vehicle, except during winter
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 5,600 ft (1,707 m)
Water T° (source): Extremely hot — scalding to near boiling
Odor: Noticeable sulfur smell
More Adventures
Directions to Vulcan Hot Springs
From Cascade,
- Take Warm Lake Road (NF-22) east for about 25 miles
- Turn right onto Stolle Meadows Road (NF-474) and drive 7 miles to a trailhead
- From this point, hike about 3/4 mile to the springs.
GPS (Hot Springs): N 44°34.080' W 115°41.700' | 44.568, -115.695