With winter in full-swing I thought it would be a good time to start a series that focus-on hot springs that are viable winter destinations from the city of Boise, Idaho.
Boise’s Best Winter Hot Springs
1 Hour from Boise
Skinnydipper AKA Mile Marker 4 Hot Springs near Garden Valley
Skinnydipper is about a 45minute to 1 hour drive from Boise, followed by a 0.5 mile hike up steep switchbacks to the actual hot springs. Visiting should be avoided during inclement weather. Roads and the trail can become treacherous quickly. It’s popular, so go on the weekdays or in the morning or both if you can. Luckily, there’s usually 2 or 3 pools in good working order. Thus, decent space to accommodate moderate sized groups of people. Lock-up your vehicle and hide your valuables, as theft has been on the rise in the parking area.
View all Skinnydipper posts
View Skinnydipper on IdahoHotSprings.com
Directions
- From Boise, take Highway 55 north to Banks, Idaho (45 minutes)
- Head east from Banks on the Banks-Lowman Highway to the mile marker 4 sign and trail head parking area (15 minutes)
- Cross the road and find the well-used and visible trail that heads north, up the side of the mountain
- Follow the switchbacks all the way up before dropping down to the pools (.5 mile hike/steep elevation)
- Be careful! This hike can be treacherous during inclement weather conditions
Check Idaho Road Conditions and Reports
Fees
None. Skinnydipper is a public hot springs located on BLM land.
Overnight Options
Nearby campgrounds on highway 55, north of Crouch and east of Garden Valley plus a couple hotels in Garden Valley.
Special Considerations
Skinnydipper is a recent find, and has only been around since the mid to late 90s – much unlike the rest of Idaho’s natural hot springs. It is also one of Idaho’s most abused hot springs and survives primarily due to the efforts of volunteer groups like ‘The Keepers’, ‘Boise River Volunteers’ and a few locals. Please remember to not bring any glass (not fun to step on in the pool) and pick up all trash you come across.
Upcoming Boise’s Best Winter Hot Springs Series Posts:
Gold Fork Hot Springs near Donnelly and Cascade
Miracle Hot Springs near Hagerman
Kirkham Hot Springs near Lowman
Bonneville Hot Springs near Lowman
Juntura Hot Springs near Juntura, Oregon