Natural
102–105°F
Buhl, ID3,300ft
Miracle Hot Springs
Idaho's Hidden Gem on the Snake River Canyon
4.3(560)
Day UsePrivate Tubs+2
"Idaho's geothermal playground — Olympic swimming pools and natural hot springs in one small town."
About This Location
Lava Hot Springs is a small Idaho town that has built its entire identity around its remarkable geothermal springs. The state-operated hot springs complex features five natural soaking pools ranging from 102–112°F, fed by springs that produce odorless, mineral-rich water with no sulfur smell. Across town, a separate state-operated Olympic swimming complex features pools and water slides. The entire town of Lava Hot Springs is essentially a hot springs resort, with dozens of inns, B&Bs, and restaurants within walking distance of the pools.
History
The Bannock and Shoshone people used these springs for centuries before European settlement. The Idaho state government has operated the hot springs since 1919, making it one of the few state-run hot springs complexes in the country. The no-sulfur, odorless water made Lava Hot Springs famous throughout the region.
Pools & Soaking Areas
112°F
East Complex Soaking Pools (5)
Five natural hot spring soaking pools ranging from 102–112°F, fed by geothermal springs with no chlorine added.
80°F
Olympic Swimming Complex
State-operated Olympic-size swimming pools and water slides — separate from the hot springs.
Mineral Content
SodiumBicarbonateSulfateSilica
Amenities
Family FriendlyFood & BeverageDay UseWheelchair Accessible
Insider Tip
The water has no sulfur smell — a huge selling point for people who dislike the egg smell of many hot springs. The East Complex pools are the hot springs; the swim complex is across town and separately ticketed. The town has excellent food options for such a small place.
SOAKER REVIEWS
4.5
2 reviews
5 ★
1
4 ★
1
3 ★
0
2 ★
0
1 ★
0
TrailBear_CO
· Winter
Absolutely worth the drive
Lava Hot Springs exceeded every expectation. The water temperature was perfect and the setting is stunning. We arrived early to beat the crowds — highly recommend doing the same.
SoakSeekerSarah
· Winter
Great soak, busy on weekends
Loved the mineral pools and the views. It does get crowded on Saturday afternoons so try to go mid-week if you can. Staff was friendly and the facilities were clean.
