Jerry Johnson Hot Springs - Free soaking · donation encouraged in Lowell, ID (2026)
A swinging bridge over Warm Springs Creek leads to terraced pools perched above the Lochsa River, framed by cedar forest and mist.
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is one of the iconic free wild soaks along Idaho's Highway 12 (the Lewis and Clark route between Lolo Pass and Lewiston), reached via a 1.5-mile forest hike from a marked Forest Service trailhead. Three main pools terrace above the Lochsa River, fed by a 114°F source and cooled by mixing with creek water. Old-growth cedar shade, river-bottom views, and the absence of any developed infrastructure make it the most-photographed roadside soak in Idaho. Free, dispersed, with seasonal closures from late November through mid-May to protect wintering elk.
What to expect
Park at the Warm Springs Trailhead off US-12 (about 38 miles east of the Lowell ranger station), cross the Lochsa River on the swinging bridge, and hike 1.5 miles through cedar forest to the pools. Three pools — upper (hottest, ~108°F), middle, and lower (closest to the river, coolest). Clothing-optional in practice, swimsuit-required by Forest Service rule. No facilities; pack out everything. Best in summer and early fall; trail closes for elk winter range.
Temperature
95°-108°F
Pools
3 soaking pools
Best season
May-October
Reservations
Walk-up friendly
Dog policy
Leashed dogs welcome
Family policy
Adults only
Safety notes
- Spring runoff can submerge the lower pools—heed Forest Service closure signs when the river is high.
- The 1.5-mile trail is closed annually during big-game winter range (usually late Nov–early May).
Amenities & etiquette
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Editor’s picks nearby
- Kirkham Hot Springs — the drive-up Highway 21 favorite along the South Fork Payette — multiple terraced pools.
- Goldbug Hot Springs — the Salmon River corridor classic — 2-mile uphill hike to terraced creekside pools above US-93.