In case you didn’t catch the news last month, Weir Creek Hot Springs in Idaho is now under nighttime closure orders from the forest service. Sadly, for those of us familiar with the situation, it was bound to happen.
It was inevitable… they made it a beacon and are surprised that more people started visiting. Ugh. New restrictions for Weir Creek Hot Springs https://t.co/TYmXUAjOWk
— Broseph Onsen ? (@hotspringsguy) December 1, 2022
Just a few years ago Weir Creek was virtually unknown. It wasn’t signed. There was just a dirt pullout. It was such a nice reprieve given the immense popularity of nearby Jerry Johnson Hot Springs.
Then came the sign. Followed by the inevitable surge in use from area college students, bike packers and river runners. Things were starting to get a little out of hand regarding litter, human flowers and (illegal) overnight camping. Yet, there was no visible attempt made at enforcing the rules despite outcry from those of us standing up for Weir Creek.
Then came the pit toilet. As if the sign wasn’t a large enough beacon. That combined with lax enforcement equals something drastic like nighttime closure destined to occur.
Now that it has. We’re all very lucky it hasn’t been completely shut down. But it will eventually be if lax enforcement continues and folks don’t start cleaning up after themselves. Anyone remember Skinnydipper?