View the Complete Listing for Trail Creek Hot Springs on IdahoHotSprings.com
11.26.06 Trail Creek Hot Springs in Idaho Video
11.27.2006
View the Complete Listing for Trail Creek Hot Springs on IdahoHotSprings.com
One of Idaho's Best Winter Soaks - Trail Creek Hot Springs
11.26.2006
Trail Creek Hot Springs in Idaho
One of the best winter soaks
One of the best winter soaks
Pool Condition
The smaller pool of the two is now the largest pool as of 11.20.05. The depth of the pool is approx. 3 ft and width 10 ft; making it suitable for a 10-pack of soakers. This pool is the first thing you see once you make it down the path from the pullout and cross the river via man-made bridge (as of 03.12.06). It is now rocked walled and reinforced with mortar featuring a rock and sand bottom. Hot water slides down a colorful algae laden rocks into the pool from above while cold water comes in from Trail Creek (adjust the temp. via pipe caps).
Plumbing upgrade: adjustable value
The next pool you will come across just past the 1st is also mortar and rock walled. It can accommodate approx. 6 happy soakers and is about 8ft wide and 2.5 feet deep. Hot water enters the pool from below through the sandy bottom and bubbles up. It also enters the pool via green hose that is siphon fed from the source above the 1st pool. Cold water from the creek is piped in via dual intake pipes located in the lower portion of the pool closest to the most upstream point of the creek. Temperature is adjustable by moving the intake hose out of the water and / or adjusting intake / outtake pipe caps.
How Sweet It Is
Seasonal Notes
The lower pool submerges during spring runoff, but the upper pool evades because of tall mortar reinforced walls, which are high enough to resist the seasonally rampant creek. Sometimes during winter a 4x4 vehicle is required to traverse the last leg of the Warm Lake Highway... especially for accessing the pullout area. The Warm Lake HWY on occasion is subject to closure during severe winter weather.
Camping Notes
There is ample, level campsites with fire rings slightly above the springs and below the pullout. Be prepared to share if it's even the slightest bit warm outside. Other Boise National Forest camping areas and campground are nearby, as is Warm Lake and a variety of other hot springs.
The snow is always a nice touch
11.26.06 Trip Report
If I could put a title on this visit it would be "The Best of One World and the Worst of Another". The 2 pools are in the best condition I've ever seen them in, and I've never seen more trash here before. Both pools feature plumbing upgrades with the uppermost pool sporting a shiny valve; allowing for cold water intake control I.E. temperature control. The top pool clocked in between 105 and 107, the lower pool 109 to 112. Both pools have been dug further out, have had mortar reinforcement/repairs and have new/upgraded plumbing. I would have rated this soak A+ all the way but the surge in trash alarmed me; glass and can beer containers were sticking out of Trail Creek, beer and pop cans were smashed and tucked under rocks in the creek, little tea candles were all over the place, cig buts everywhere and even trash in the pool... nice. I know this place sees a lot of traffic, but the usual soaker around here is fairly environmentally conscience. These places are so rare, polluting them with trash is disrespectful to the environment, wildlife and other hot springers. Please pick up all trash you come across wherever you go.
Rating A-
Geothermal Graceland at Granite Creek Hot Spring in Idaho
11.24.2006
The right spot can be tricky to find
General Description
Seasonal riverside rock-walled, sandy/gravel/rock bottomed pools right next to the middle fork road. There may or may not be a pool ready depending on the time of your visit. The riverside pools feature a swirling mix of cold and hot water. Often, one might need to continuously stir the pool to maintain adequate soaking temperatures.
Excellent Boise River Views
Seasonal Notes
Submerged during spring runoff: best times to visit are late July through November. Majority of roads into Atlanta close during winter save for one route which is sketchy at best most winters especially given the large amount of deaths that occur on this road during the summer months.
Camping Notes
Plenty of nearby National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites to choose from.
Ample parking
09.17.06 Trip Report
Granite Creek Hot Spring was a welcome hot soak during the crisp fall morning. The previous night went into single digits early on, which made the hot spring feel that much better. We soaked briefly with a traveler from California on his way to Yellowstone, hitting as many hot springs along the way.
Rating B+
Overview of the pools
Seasonal riverside rock-walled, sandy/gravel/rock bottomed pools right next to the middle fork road. There may or may not be a pool ready depending on the time of your visit. The riverside pools feature a swirling mix of cold and hot water. Often, one might need to continuously stir the pool to maintain adequate soaking temperatures.
Excellent Boise River Views
Seasonal Notes
Submerged during spring runoff: best times to visit are late July through November. Majority of roads into Atlanta close during winter save for one route which is sketchy at best most winters especially given the large amount of deaths that occur on this road during the summer months.
Camping Notes
Plenty of nearby National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites to choose from.
Ample parking
09.17.06 Trip Report
Granite Creek Hot Spring was a welcome hot soak during the crisp fall morning. The previous night went into single digits early on, which made the hot spring feel that much better. We soaked briefly with a traveler from California on his way to Yellowstone, hitting as many hot springs along the way.
Rating B+
Overview of the pools
2007 Idaho & Northwest Hot Springs Calendars
11.23.2006
The 2007 IdahoHotSprings.com and FindHotSprings.com calendars are in!
All calendar photographs have been taken by the IdahoHotSprings.com Webmaster, and feature hot springs in Idaho, Oregon, Washington and Nevada.
Calendar #1: Goldbug Hot Springs (1 picture)
Only $4.79
On Sale Until Dec. 3rd! Reg. price $5.99
Calendar #2: Northwest Hot Springs (12 pictures + 1 cover picture)
Only $15.19
On Sale Until Dec. 3rd! Reg. price $18.99
Burgdorf Hot Springs near McCall, Idaho
11.11.2006
Burgdorf Hot Springs in Idaho
Founded in the 1870s, Burgdorf is located near the historic town of Warren, Idaho. Burgdorf features a 6x6 ft spring box pool (113°) and a 50x85 ft large pool (100°-104°), both with sandy bottoms. Electricity-free rental cabins are available and come with a wood stove and oil lamp. You will need to bring cooking equipment, food and any other supplies. If you are planning on spending the night. Please call in advance for reservations. Also, according to Becky from Secesh.net, the owners/operators maintain a blacklist that contains the names of unruly visitors. So behave! Keep in mind that Burgdorf is not your typical commercial hot springs; as it is also a ghost town located on private land surrounded by the beautiful Payette National Forest.
Facilities
Rental Cabins (18 on-site)
Food Services
Rules
No Dogs
No Outside Fires
No Outside Smoking
Directions
Summer Directions (Mid-May to early November): From McCall, drive 30 miles north on Warren Wagon Road to Burgdorf Junction. Go west (left) at the junction to the parking and camping areas. Winter Directions: Same as above, but via groomed snowmobile or cross-country ski trails. Rentals are available in McCall, Idaho.
Online Driving Directions
View Topo Map
Rates
Adults, $5.30
Children, $2.65
Cabins, $27/night
Hours
Public: 10am - Dusk
Private: Dusk - 10am
Make Reservations
Contact Melissa K. Wallace
Phone: 208.636.3036
Facilities
Rental Cabins (18 on-site)
Food Services
Rules
No Dogs
No Outside Fires
No Outside Smoking
Directions
Summer Directions (Mid-May to early November): From McCall, drive 30 miles north on Warren Wagon Road to Burgdorf Junction. Go west (left) at the junction to the parking and camping areas. Winter Directions: Same as above, but via groomed snowmobile or cross-country ski trails. Rentals are available in McCall, Idaho.
Online Driving Directions
View Topo Map
Rates
Adults, $5.30
Children, $2.65
Cabins, $27/night
Hours
Public: 10am - Dusk
Private: Dusk - 10am
Make Reservations
Contact Melissa K. Wallace
Phone: 208.636.3036
High Desert Soaks in Southeast Oregon
A collection of pictures taken from an Oct. 2002 camping/backpacking trip in the high desert region of Southeast Oregon. We first started out in the Alvord Desert then ventured up Steens Mountain. Included soakable hot springs: Alvord, Willow Creek, Borax Lake and Little Borax plus various other hot springs that were non-soakable.
This album is powered by
BubbleShare
- Add to my blog
View the complete listing for Alvord (Desert) Hot Springs in Oregon
View the complete listing for Willow Creek (Whitehorse Ranch) Hot Springs in Oregon
View the complete listing for Little Borax Hot Springs in Oregon
View the complete listing for Borax Lake Hot Springs in Oregon
This album is powered by
BubbleShare
- Add to my blog
View the complete listing for Alvord (Desert) Hot Springs in Oregon
View the complete listing for Willow Creek (Whitehorse Ranch) Hot Springs in Oregon
View the complete listing for Little Borax Hot Springs in Oregon
View the complete listing for Borax Lake Hot Springs in Oregon
Juntura Hot Springs Pictures
11.09.2006
Taken from a Sept. 03 camping trip in Oregon.
This album is powered by
BubbleShare
- Add to my blog
View the complete listing for Juntura Hot Springs in Oregon
This album is powered by
BubbleShare
- Add to my blog
View the complete listing for Juntura Hot Springs in Oregon
Bear Valley Hot Springs Pictures
11.08.2006
Taken from a July 05 trip to Bear Valley Hot Springs in Idaho near Stanley.
This album is powered by
BubbleShare
- Add to my blog
View the complete listing for Bear Valley Hot Springs in Idaho
This album is powered by
BubbleShare
- Add to my blog
View the complete listing for Bear Valley Hot Springs in Idaho
Soak the Vote
Even though Idaho remains as the most Republican state, America has decided to give the Democrats a turn in the hot seat. There were a few close races here in Idaho, enough to stir things up last night. I was glad to find out that Prop 2 went down in flames; I'm always amazed when covert agenda stuff makes it to a vote.
I used to get extremely frustrated with Idaho Republicans. Here we are, with the majority of us living in this beautiful state because of the outdoors for some reason or another. Yet, even when obvious legislation is enacted that goes directly against our public lands, roadless forests, wildlife and personal health (water quality) the Republican Red rages on. What could be more obvious than the land grab, revoking the roadless rule, attacking the Endangered Species Act, etc...
I just couldn't wrap my mind around why. I finally came to a realization after talking with many of my acquaintances - it all comes down to education. Given the chance and the proper vessel of education, most that live here because of the outdoors make a decision based upon relevant information. That's how I do it. There's no Blue or Red in my mind, just an ideal of environmental stewardship. And, right now, Blue (Democrats) are far better stewards of the environment.
Well, enough of that. Now get out there and go find yourself a hot soak!
I used to get extremely frustrated with Idaho Republicans. Here we are, with the majority of us living in this beautiful state because of the outdoors for some reason or another. Yet, even when obvious legislation is enacted that goes directly against our public lands, roadless forests, wildlife and personal health (water quality) the Republican Red rages on. What could be more obvious than the land grab, revoking the roadless rule, attacking the Endangered Species Act, etc...
I just couldn't wrap my mind around why. I finally came to a realization after talking with many of my acquaintances - it all comes down to education. Given the chance and the proper vessel of education, most that live here because of the outdoors make a decision based upon relevant information. That's how I do it. There's no Blue or Red in my mind, just an ideal of environmental stewardship. And, right now, Blue (Democrats) are far better stewards of the environment.
Well, enough of that. Now get out there and go find yourself a hot soak!
More on Idaho's Prop 2
11.06.2006
Don't Let Them Fool You
If Prop 2 goes through, Idaho property taxpayers could be forced to pay millions to opportunists and special interests (did you get that?!) in order to protect their property, the environment and wildlife. So, if big business wants to move in next door or into the forest we would have to pay them to stop!
Under Proposition 2 no recourse can be taken if, for example, someone wants to locate a junkyard or gravel pit next to your home, because either property taxes pay the person not to do it or the investment and value in the property declines.
The eminent domain section is included only to distract attention from the initiative’s real purpose - gutting local planning that protects our communities and property values and allowing opportunists to prey on Idaho property tax-payers.
Prop 2 takes planning for growth out of local hands and gives it to opportunists and special interest groups. Millionaires who don’t even live in Idaho should not be able to dictate what local government and Idaho property owners can and cannot do.
Who's behind Prop 2? You won't even believe it, click here to see for yourself!
Don't be fooled, vote for the environment, your property rights and against special interests - vote NO on Proposition 2!
Josh
-IdahoHotSprings.com Webmaster
Additional Prop 2 Information
If Prop 2 goes through, Idaho property taxpayers could be forced to pay millions to opportunists and special interests (did you get that?!) in order to protect their property, the environment and wildlife. So, if big business wants to move in next door or into the forest we would have to pay them to stop!
Under Proposition 2 no recourse can be taken if, for example, someone wants to locate a junkyard or gravel pit next to your home, because either property taxes pay the person not to do it or the investment and value in the property declines.
The eminent domain section is included only to distract attention from the initiative’s real purpose - gutting local planning that protects our communities and property values and allowing opportunists to prey on Idaho property tax-payers.
Prop 2 takes planning for growth out of local hands and gives it to opportunists and special interest groups. Millionaires who don’t even live in Idaho should not be able to dictate what local government and Idaho property owners can and cannot do.
Who's behind Prop 2? You won't even believe it, click here to see for yourself!
Don't be fooled, vote for the environment, your property rights and against special interests - vote NO on Proposition 2!
Josh
-IdahoHotSprings.com Webmaster
Additional Prop 2 Information
Roaring River Hot Springs in Idaho Revisited
General Description
Steamy, roadside soaking in a variety of rock-walled pools await the intrepid hot springer. The vast complex emanates heat from multiple locations. However, the small and shallow pools have varied temperatures, need rebuilding after spring runoff and relocation after the river lever recedes (too hot!). There may or may not be something worth while to soak in, but there is plenty of opportunity abound.
09.19.06: One of many small, seasonal pools along the MF Boise River
Pool Condition
Pools are typically small, shallow soakers dug out near or at the river edge where hot meets cold. Once a suitable pool is found or designed, soakers can then enjoy a traditional hot/cold swirling soak where it is often necessary to stir the pool to maintain an adequate soaking temperature.
Seasonal Notes
The majority of roads into the Atlanta area close during winter save for one route which is sketchy at best most winters especially given the large amount of accidents that occur on this road during the summer months. Note: The Middle Fork Boise River Road is a rough one - this is one of my least favorite roads to drive on in Idaho due to the insane washboards. Something to keep in mind. During the summer you can cut down on the drive time by taking on of the many FSR off State HWY 21 to the Middle Fork Road.
Camping Notes
Plenty of nearby National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites to choose from up and down the road.
09.19.06: Pool sizes, temps and locations vary each year and usually need rebuilding after spring runoff
09.19.06 Trip Report
Roaring River was more like a dull roar for me. While very scenic, the majority of the pools were unusable and clearly visible from the Boise Middle Fork Road. The geothermal complex is fairly large, emanating hot spring water from multiple locations. Most of the pools were either freezing, silt-filled, boiling or poorly designed. There was one worthy soak, but not really that worthy. It was hot enough, but small and shallow in addition to having somewhat low water movement. There was however, plenty of potential. Soaking next to a fairly busy forest road in lack-luster pools isn't really my spot of tea, and really why should it be with so many other stellar soaks nearby. This one is worth a check-out though, and you may just luck out and find a big, juicy steamy soak waiting.
Rating: C-
Steamy, roadside soaking in a variety of rock-walled pools await the intrepid hot springer. The vast complex emanates heat from multiple locations. However, the small and shallow pools have varied temperatures, need rebuilding after spring runoff and relocation after the river lever recedes (too hot!). There may or may not be something worth while to soak in, but there is plenty of opportunity abound.
09.19.06: One of many small, seasonal pools along the MF Boise River
Pool Condition
Pools are typically small, shallow soakers dug out near or at the river edge where hot meets cold. Once a suitable pool is found or designed, soakers can then enjoy a traditional hot/cold swirling soak where it is often necessary to stir the pool to maintain an adequate soaking temperature.
Seasonal Notes
The majority of roads into the Atlanta area close during winter save for one route which is sketchy at best most winters especially given the large amount of accidents that occur on this road during the summer months. Note: The Middle Fork Boise River Road is a rough one - this is one of my least favorite roads to drive on in Idaho due to the insane washboards. Something to keep in mind. During the summer you can cut down on the drive time by taking on of the many FSR off State HWY 21 to the Middle Fork Road.
Camping Notes
Plenty of nearby National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites to choose from up and down the road.
09.19.06: Pool sizes, temps and locations vary each year and usually need rebuilding after spring runoff
09.19.06 Trip Report
Roaring River was more like a dull roar for me. While very scenic, the majority of the pools were unusable and clearly visible from the Boise Middle Fork Road. The geothermal complex is fairly large, emanating hot spring water from multiple locations. Most of the pools were either freezing, silt-filled, boiling or poorly designed. There was one worthy soak, but not really that worthy. It was hot enough, but small and shallow in addition to having somewhat low water movement. There was however, plenty of potential. Soaking next to a fairly busy forest road in lack-luster pools isn't really my spot of tea, and really why should it be with so many other stellar soaks nearby. This one is worth a check-out though, and you may just luck out and find a big, juicy steamy soak waiting.
Rating: C-
Idaho Prop 2 - Vote NO
11.05.2006
I was going to attempt to write a convincing piece on why Proposition 2 is bad news but this website does a great job. Don't forget to vote pro-environment on Tuesday by voting NO on Proposition 2.
30 ft Hot Waterfall-Fed Brown Hot Spring in Idaho
11.02.2006
General Description
There is a major river ford to reach Brown's Creek Hot Spring that should only be attempted during low-water conditions, which is usually sometime during the month of August. Once on the far side of the Middle Fork Boise River, soakers are treated to small, shallow, seasonal soaking pools, a hot waterfall shower and a secret shallow soaker nestled in a nook in the rocks (the only one out of view of the road).
Pool Condition
Hot waterfall (approx. 30ft tall) fed shallow pools (only above water late season around August) and hidden two-person rock and mortar pool on the far side of the Boise River.
Seasonal Notes
The majority of roads into the Atlanta area close during winter save for one route which is sketchy at best most winters especially given the large amount of accidents that occur on this road during the summer months. Note: The Middle Fork Boise River Road is a rough one - this is one of my least favorite roads to drive on in Idaho due to the insane washboards. Something to keep in mind. During the summer you can cut down on the drive time by taking on of the many FSR off State HWY 21 to the Middle Fork Road.
Camping Notes
Plenty of nearby National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites to choose from up and down the road.
09.19.06 Trip Report
What a nice little surprise Brown Hot Spring turned out to be. The river water, freezing, let me tell you. But the soaking, not too shabby. Had there been something a bit deeper I would have been stoked. The dual hot waterfall/showers definitely helped. The best time to visit Brown is late August. Swim during the day and soak at dusk and dawn.
Rating: B
There is a major river ford to reach Brown's Creek Hot Spring that should only be attempted during low-water conditions, which is usually sometime during the month of August. Once on the far side of the Middle Fork Boise River, soakers are treated to small, shallow, seasonal soaking pools, a hot waterfall shower and a secret shallow soaker nestled in a nook in the rocks (the only one out of view of the road).
Pool Condition
Hot waterfall (approx. 30ft tall) fed shallow pools (only above water late season around August) and hidden two-person rock and mortar pool on the far side of the Boise River.
Seasonal Notes
The majority of roads into the Atlanta area close during winter save for one route which is sketchy at best most winters especially given the large amount of accidents that occur on this road during the summer months. Note: The Middle Fork Boise River Road is a rough one - this is one of my least favorite roads to drive on in Idaho due to the insane washboards. Something to keep in mind. During the summer you can cut down on the drive time by taking on of the many FSR off State HWY 21 to the Middle Fork Road.
Camping Notes
Plenty of nearby National Forest campgrounds and primitive sites to choose from up and down the road.
09.19.06 Trip Report
What a nice little surprise Brown Hot Spring turned out to be. The river water, freezing, let me tell you. But the soaking, not too shabby. Had there been something a bit deeper I would have been stoked. The dual hot waterfall/showers definitely helped. The best time to visit Brown is late August. Swim during the day and soak at dusk and dawn.
Rating: B
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
