Fifth Water Hot Springs - Free soaking · donation encouraged in Spanish Fork, UT (2026)
Milky-blue pools and waterfalls tucked in Diamond Fork Canyon make this one of Utah County’s favorite shoulder-season hikes.
Fifth Water Hot Springs is the most-photographed wild soak in Utah's Wasatch Front — a series of milky-blue, sulfur-tinted pools at the foot of a small waterfall in Diamond Fork Canyon, southeast of Spanish Fork. The 4.5-mile round-trip Forest Service trail along Sixth Water Creek is moderate, family-doable in summer, and absolutely packed on weekends. The pools sit at 95-108°F depending on which terrace, and the lower travertine basin where the warm water mixes with cold creek runoff is the iconic photo. Free, dispersed, and rough around the edges.
What to expect
Park at the Three Forks trailhead off Diamond Fork Road (Forest Service pass required). Hike 2.25 miles up a moderate-grade trail along the creek; you'll smell the sulfur before you see the pools. Multiple terraces — most popular is the lowest one beneath the small waterfall. No facilities. Pack out everything; clothing-optional in practice though officially required by the Forest Service. Best at sunrise on weekdays.
Temperature
95°-108°F
Pools
8 soaking pools
Best season
May-October
Reservations
Walk-up friendly
Dog policy
Leashed dogs welcome
Family policy
Adults only
Safety notes
- Trail closures follow rockfall, avalanches, or wildfire impacts—check the Forest Service alert page before departing.
- Parking at the Three Forks lot requires a recreation pass and fills by 7 a.m. on weekends.
Amenities & etiquette
FAQ
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