Soak in Kirkham Hot Springs
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Added by Dusty Klein
This legendary hot spot is one of many along the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway. It features geothermal pools and waterfalls of varying temperatures and is nuzzled up to the beautiful South Fork of the Payette River.
Soaking in Kirkham is like soaking in a dream. Numerous geothermal springs of varying temperature await at the bottom of a small wooden staircase. Hot water pours over the cliff into pools below and literally feels like a natural shower. If that's not enough, enjoy the rush and beauty of the Payette River beside you.
From Boise, head north on Highway 21 through Idaho City and through Lowman. 5 miles past Lowman you'll spot the steam from Kirkham Campground, home to one of the most famous hot springs in Idaho. Insider Tip: there are many geothermal pools along this highway so keep your eyeballs out for signs and steam rising if you're looking to tour some more springs. Kirkham sees a lot of visitors in the summer months so prepare to engage with other soakers. If you brave the roads and hike through the snow in the winter you will be rewarded with a vacant world-class, all-natural spa.
This is one of those charming spots that you've got to experience firsthand. There is a $5 fee to park in the campground and it's recommended to keep your pups at home. As always, be respectful of your environment and pick up after yourself. Have a great soak!
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Well worth it!
Stop in during the early morning and you may be the only one there. We went at 7am and enjoyed the peaceful sounds and saw a herd of mule deer grazing on the hilltop across the river.
5.0
So fun!
We watched a heard of deer watch us soak. Multiple pools at multiple temperatures! Definitely recommend.
5.0
Kirkham
This place is awesome, the pools were amazing and varied with temperatures. We went in late March, the campground was still closed. We were there around 8pm and had the whole hot springs to ourselves.
5.0
Perfect Saturday morning adventure
Absolutely worth the drive. It was beautiful! So warm and relaxing :) My 4-year-old son and I went up this morning, got there around 10-10:30. There were a few people but there’s plenty of room! It people started to pile in around 12-12:30 so we left just before 1. It was amazing though, we really enjoyed it!
5.0
Beautiful
We had a great time. The river water is so clear. You can see the bottom. We will go again.
5.0
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We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
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