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Soak in Kirkham Hot Springs

Lowman, Idaho

4.6/5
based on 14 reviews

Description

Added by Dusty Klein

This legendary hot spot is one of many along the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway. It features geothermal pools and waterfalls of varying temperatures and is nuzzled up to the beautiful South Fork of the Payette River.

Soaking in Kirkham is like soaking in a dream. Numerous geothermal springs of varying temperature await at the bottom of a small wooden staircase. Hot water pours over the cliff into pools below and literally feels like a natural shower. If that's not enough, enjoy the rush and beauty of the Payette River beside you.

From Boise, head north on Highway 21 through Idaho City and through Lowman. 5 miles past Lowman you'll spot the steam from Kirkham Campground, home to one of the most famous hot springs in Idaho. Insider Tip: there are many geothermal pools along this highway so keep your eyeballs out for signs and steam rising if you're looking to tour some more springs. Kirkham sees a lot of visitors in the summer months so prepare to engage with other soakers. If you brave the roads and hike through the snow in the winter you will be rewarded with a vacant world-class, all-natural spa.

This is one of those charming spots that you've got to experience firsthand. There is a $5 fee to park in the campground and it's recommended to keep your pups at home. As always, be respectful of your environment and pick up after yourself. Have a great soak!

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Features

Chillin
Camping
Photography
Swimming
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Hot Springs
River
Scenic
Waterfall

Soak in Kirkham Hot Springs Reviews

This was a very accessible hot spring with a very short hike. Parking is on the side of highway 21. The day we arrived there was a park service employee there collecting park fees. Some people weren't paying and it looked like they were getting ticketed. There's an old campground (maybe it's open at certain times of the year) that you walk through to get to the Spring. Great place to picnic at. At the end of the campground is one tub but keep going and you'll find several pools and a small waterfall. The waterfall was like a shower!!! But it was so hot, I could not stand completely under it. The payette river was flowing strong the day we visited so be careful and stay close to the rock wall. Totally worth the stop and the fee to enter/park.

Stop in during the early morning and you may be the only one there. We went at 7am and enjoyed the peaceful sounds and saw a herd of mule deer grazing on the hilltop across the river.

We watched a heard of deer watch us soak. Multiple pools at multiple temperatures! Definitely recommend.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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