Weir Creek Hot Springs: A Pristine Soaking Experience

Weir Creek Hot Springs is a popular hiking and soaking destination, located in the scenic Clearwater National Forest, Idaho 35 miles away from the Montana border.

Nestled alongside a tranquil creek and surrounded by towering cedars and volcanic rock cliffs, the area offer a serene escape into nature and is a fantastic playground for hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, wildlife watching, and other adventures.

Weir Creek Hot Springs - Geothermal Water & Soaking

The geothermal water at hot springs emerges from the source at around 118°F (48°C) and carries a slight sulfur odor. The hot water is channeled into 3 to 4 volunteer-built soaking pools, built by volunteers using rocks and logs.

Upper Pool:  The most secluded pool, located directly at the cliff wall, has a temperature of around 105°F (41°C).

Main Pool: The largest and most popular pool, built on a cliff ledge above the creek, can accommodate up to 10 people. Its temperature is typically around 105°F (41°C) or lower, depending on the season. You can adjust the temperature by adding creek water or diverting the mineral water flow.

Lower Pools: Additional smaller pools are situated closer to Weir Creek, with temperatures around 100°F (38°C). These pools are more seasonal and may not always be visible, depending on the time of year.

The pools have gravel and sand bottoms, with some lined with split logs. Be cautious, as the bedrock surfaces and rocks around the springs can be very slippery. Wearing river footwear is advisable to prevent falls.

Clothing is optional at the springs, so you might encounter a mix of swimwear and natural attire, especially during busy summer days. Weekdays and evenings tend to be less crowded.

The Weir Creek Hot Springs and surrounding area are closed to overnight use from 8 pm to 6 am daily.

Getting There

To reach Weir Creek Hot Springs, park in the small lot near milepost 143 on U.S. Highway 12. From the parking area (which has a vault toilet), hike the moderate 0.5-mile trail following the creek to reach the springs. The trail has 100 feet of elevation gain.

Beyond Hot Springs: Other Adventures

Clearwater National Forest offers a wealth of outdoor adventures beyond soaking in mineral waters:

Hiking: Explore an extensive network of trails, including the Weir Creek Trail, Lochsa Historical Ranger Station Trail, and the more challenging Lochsa Peak Trail.

Fishing: The Lochsa River and its tributaries, including Weir Creek, are popular for fishing, with species such as West Slope cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and mountain whitefish.

Rafting and Kayaking: The Lochsa River is a hotspot for whitewater enthusiasts, offering rapids ranging from Class III to Class V. Local outfitters provide guided trips.

Camping: Several developed campgrounds are located throughout the forest, including Colgate Camp, Green Flat Campground, Jerry Johnson Campground, Powell Campground, Whitehouse Campground, and Wendover Campground. Colgate Camp is the nearest, just 5.6 miles east of the Weir Creek Hot Springs parking lot.

Wildlife Viewing: The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, black bears, and various bird species. Enjoy wildlife watching along the many trails and roads.

Winter Sports: In winter, the area transforms into a paradise for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling on designated trails.

Location: Northern Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: None
Clothing: Optional
Amenities & Services: None

Hiking distance: 0.5-mile one-way trail
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: No

Elevation: 2,900 ft (884 m)