Sunday, December 11th, 2011
The Warm Springs Resort in Idaho City, Idaho is Set to Re-Open Summer 2012 as “The Springs”
Warm Springs Resort January 15, 1884
This is indeed excellent news! It was originally posted on The Springs Website that they would open this winter. However, paying attention to detail has moved the launch to this summer. To be honest, it is really awesome to see The Springs reach-out and involve the community.
I’ve been very fortunate to have been involved with a number of commercial hot springs in the northwest over the years, and was pretty stoked when contacted by the General Manager of The Springs, Wyatt Sharpley, for input and an invite to The Springs prior to opening. Are you kidding? Yes please! How could I resist a backstage pass like that. 
Regardless, I am really looking forward to visiting. This crew definitely seems to have their stuff together.
Classic Warm Springs Resort Photos
From what I’ve learned, The Springs are very interested in hot springer feedback and making sure their geothermal establishment plays an integral role in both Idaho City and Boise communities. In fact, the grand opening has been timed to match-up with Idaho City’s 150th Anniversary. Join the conversation on The Springs Facebook Fan Page.
Quite a few of my hot springs brethren have fond memories and stories of the old Warm Springs Resort in Idaho City. I never had the chance to visit before it went offline. Back in those days, I was traveling a lot and wasn’t too interested in commercial soaks.
There has even been discussion about making The Springs clothing optional, which would make it the first commercial hot springs in Idaho to do just that. The only other clothing optional option in Idaho is a private soak at Miracle Hot Springs, where you can acquire a private pool. Miracle is re-opening on December 15th (this Thursday) with upgraded facilities in the form of new public and private pools.
The Springs Lowdown
Overnight accommodations? Yep. They’ve got two Airstream trailers with future plans for a tree fort, yurt and geodesic dome, which may even be available summer 2012.
Natural pools? You bet. Check out the photo below… you gotta love this, a rare treat for a commercial hot springs dare I say? They took what Gold Fork has done in terms of keeping it natural a step further with this little soaker.
Natural Pool at The Springs
From the Official Press Release
The Springs will be a significant upgrade from the old Warm Springs Resort. The main Olympic size pool remains, but will be resurfaced and more underwater benches will line the deep end for soaking. Next to the deep end of the main pool there will be a 15 foot round hot pool filled the hottest spring water of about 105F. Along with a fire pit, it will help create a winter outdoor space. There will be a cold soak feature and a new kiddie pool and well as a large rock water fountain that will provide a calming background sound.
The new building is one story, with a flat roof, so no matter where you are in the pool you can see the full night sky and watch the stars as you take an evening soak.
The modest building is only 2,400 sq. ft. and is constructed using Faswall building blocks, a green building material made of recycled wood fiber and concrete. The thick walls and natural plaster interior finish help create a cozy and warm environment. The building has a large glass wall entry that leads to an open reception area with a wood burning stove. Men’s and Women’s changing rooms offer private lockers, hot springs showers, and small amenities like complimentary hot teas and spring water, large towels and luxury shampoo, conditioner and moisturizer.
“There will be a lot of nice, simple touches that make guests feel well taken care of, but nothing fancy or pretentious.” Said Sharpley. “It’s about being warm and hospitable and exceeding guests’ expectations. When a guest comes here they should not have to worry about anything, least of all having to remember to bring a towel or having a safe convenient place to stash their things.”
The Springs will have a small snack bar and a place to grab a drink.
There are plans for an ongoing summer music concert series and well as live music by the pool. Quarterly celebrations will mark the seasons and create memorable annual events, including a winter festival of lights and a fall harvest festival.
Pricing for The Springs has yet to be finalized.
The Springs Idaho City Full Press Release PDF
The Springs Olympic Sized Pool
Tags: Idaho City Hot Springs, The Springs Hot Springs, The Springs in Idaho City | Posted in commercial, Hot Springs, idaho, idaho city, the springs | 1 Comment »
