Spring Runoff Hot Springs Guide

Fording to Juntura

Mountain Snow Melt Season

Spring runoff exponentially increases the level and amount of water flowing through many northwest creeks, rivers and lakes. Subsequently, submerging many streamside hot springs and often destroying user built rock pools.

While Spring runoff timing and conditions vary based on region, season and weather – a good rule of thumb is to plan for it lasting from late May through Mid-June in the mountains. Keep in mind that Spring runoff season starts 1-2 months earlier in lower elevation and high desert regions.

Recon

You can always check USGS Streamflow data to compare historical runoff conditions with current conditions to get a better idea if a particular hot springs is presently above water.
USGS Streamflow Data

The Way is Shut

Many hot soaks that don’t submerge during runoff are still not accessible because they require a ford to reach. Fording rivers and creeks during Spring runoff is a serious mistake. I can’t stress enough how this should not be attempted until after runoff has ended.

When in doubt, contact the local National Forest Ranger Station for the final say. They are typically more than happy to help out.

Listing of Northwest Hot Springs Typically Buried by Spring Runoff

Idaho Hot Springs

Region: North-Central

  • Jerry Johnson Hot Springs – Source 1 (of 3) pools, known as the waterfall pools, are typically submerged until late July.
  • Stanley Hot Springs – The ford across Boulder Creek, about 1 mile from the hot springs, is impassible until late July/early August.
  • Weir Creek Hot Springs – The lower, much easier, hiking path submerges until late June/early July.

Region: Southwest

Region: Southeast

Region: South-Central

Oregon Hot Springs

Submersion Issues

Stream Fording Issues

Washington Hot Springs with access or submersion issues: Wind River Hot Springs

4 comments

  1. Hi Kim! Yes indeed… for a 2-4 week period usually all of the pools are too cool for school because of the influx of cold water coming in from mountain snow melt.

  2. Confused about your comment that the lower trail to Weir Ck.,ID hot spring is easier. Was there in 2015 & the lower trail was almost impassable due to fallen trees. Please take the upper trail.

  3. Also regarding Weir Ck., ID hot springs……I have been there many times since the 80’s & have seen mountain lion & moose. Almost always see moose walking into Jerry Johnson’s but the elk stopped hanging out around the springs years ago.

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