It is no secret that Idaho is home to the most soakable hot springs in the entire country. While some of these hot springs in Idaho are easily accessible and require very little effort to enjoy, others are a bit more difficult to reach. Slate Creek Hot Springs, located in the White Clouds Wilderness Area in the central part of the state, is a little-known hot spring that requires quite a hike to enjoy. However, on your journey to these primitive hot springs, you will pass by a lake, capture gorgeous mountain views, and complete a pretty strenuous climb – you’ll easily check off all the boxes for the perfect day spent outdoors in Idaho.

The Slate Creek Hot Spring Trail is an approximately 5-mile out-and-back trail.
Jocelyn Mohr/AllTrails
This hiking trail in central Idaho is rated moderate and can be quite difficult for beginner hikers and younger children.
Margaret Heilshorn/AllTrails
To reach the hot springs, you must climb nearly 1,800 feet. The last half of the climb to the hot spring is where you will experience the steepest and most difficult terrain so make sure you are prepared mentally and physically.
Jessica Bonde/AllTrails

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As you climb, you’ll come to Hoodoo Lake. This area of the trail offers some pretty stunning views, and you may just have this entire lake to yourself.
Jessica Bonde/AllTrails
You might even capture a view of a scenic waterfall as well.
Jessica Bonde/AllTrails
Be prepared as there are parts of this trail that are not well-marked, and you may come across many fallen trees. You’ll want to hike with a good pair of shoes and a map you can access if you are ever confused about the direction you should take.
Craig McCloskey/AllTrails
There are also many switchbacks on this trail so make sure you are ready for all of the twists and turns. However, despite some of these challenges, you'll also experience beautiful Idaho scenery that makes the entire journey worth it.
You’ll know you’ve reached the hot springs once you see the soaking box. You can fill up the box with warm water and soak in it before heading back down the trail.
Cecilia Lee/AllTrails
These hot springs are actually located at the site of the old Hoodoo mines. As you sit and relax, you’ll be able to see signs of the mine from years ago.

For a map of the Slate Creek Hot Spring Trail in Idaho, be sure to check out the AllTrails listing.

Have you ever hiked to these hot springs in Idaho? What was your experience like? We’d love to hear more about your experience in the comments below.

No matter the season, several incredible year-round hot springs in Idaho are just waiting to be explored. Here are seven of these hot springs that you’ll want to check out. And, if you’re looking for even more travel inspiration, check out this video detailing some of the very best hot springs near Boise, Idaho:

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More to Explore

Natural Wonders In Idaho

Beth C. | January 15, 2024

What are some of the most popular natural wonders in Idaho to visit?

Idaho is one of the most naturally beautiful states in the U.S., and it's brimming with wonders. Below you'll find a list of some of the most popular natural wonders in Idaho:

  • Hells Canyon
  • Snake River Canyon
  • Bruneau Canyon
  • Minnetonka Cave
  • Darby Wind and Ice Caves
  • Shoshone Falls
  • Mesa Falls
  • Jump Creek Falls
  • Confluence Overlook
  • Osprey Point at Ponderosa Stae Park
  • Balanced Rock
  • City of Rocks National Reserve
  • Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park
  • Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
  • Redfish Lake
  • The Palouse Region

 

Of course, this list just scratches the surface of all the amazing natural wonders the Gem State has to offer. For more information about the destinations listed above, check out our list of the best natural wonders in Idaho you'll want to visit.

What are the best state parks in Idaho?

Below you'll find a list of some of the best state parks in Idaho:

  • Old Mission State Park, Coeur d'Alene
  • Harriman State Park, Island Park
  • Ponderosa State Park, McCall
  • Mary M. McCroskey State Park, Farmington
  • Heyburn State Park, Plummer
  • Hells Gate State Park, Lewiston
  • Priest Lake State Park, Coolin
  • Farragut State Park, Athol
  • Bear Lake State Park, St. Charles

 

Learn more about some of the best state parks in Idaho and why you'll want to visit them.

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Slate Creek Hot Spring, Idaho 83227, USA