• Wild Rose Hot Springs is a geothermal spot situated just off Highway 93
Wild Rose Hot Springs, also known as Carey Hot Springs or Milford Hot Springs, is a scenic destination sitting at the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, 10 miles away from the small city of Carey. The spring owes its name to the large number of wildflowers around it.
This wild spot creates a refreshing oasis in the middle of the high desert of Central Idaho. The hot mineral water emerges from several sources on the hill nearby, flows down into the pool, and also bubbles up from the gravel bottom of the pool, which is 8 feet wide, 15 feet long, and 4 feet deep. The water temperature was 100°F during our visit at the beginning of September.
The area is surrounded by lava flows. The pool walls are made of lava rocks.
Keep in mind that while springs emerging from the area managed by Bureau of Land Management, the pool itself is on private land and can be closed for use at any time. Clothing is highly advisable since the pool is sitting close to the highway. Please, keep this area clean and leave no trace behind!
The parking for the hot spring is a small gravel turnout with a spring sitting about 100 yards away.
There are no services on the premises or in the surrounding areas. The closest amenities are in Arco, about 34 miles away.
Wild Rose Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 10 miles northeast of Carey • Idaho • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Undeveloped
Clothing: Recommended
Amenities: None
Accommodations: None
Hiking distance: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 5,000 ft (1,829 m)
Water T° (source and pool): 100°F (38°C)
Odor: None
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Directions to Wild Rose Hot Springs
From Carey,
- Travel 9.5 miles east on Highway 20-26-93 to a gravel turnout on the left (the north side of the road).
Follow the trail toward the hill.