Outdoors NearbyBarth Hot Springs
The only hot spring on the Main Salmon River, a soaking spot just above the riverbank that floaters stop at during multi-day trips. There is no road or trail access. Barth Hot Springs costs nothing to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Reached only by boat on the Main Salmon River. No camping or lunch stops at the springs, no soap or shampoo, and no nudity in the river corridor. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Idaho Managed by USFS (Main Salmon Wild and Scenic River) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | 140 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
| Clothing | suits required |
Best time to soak: Barth Hot Springs
Most people soak in the cooler months. From November to March average highs around Idaho stay at 36 to 54 °F, with nights down to 21 °F. Freezing nights from November to March mean icy steps and possible road closures; traction for your shoes helps. From July to August highs reach 91 to 92 °F. Many people skip midday soaks in summer and come back after sunset.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37 °F | 21 °F | 7 |
| Feb | 44 °F | 23 °F | 5 |
| Mar | 54 °F | 29 °F | 6 |
| Apr | 63 °F | 35 °F | 7 |
| May | 73 °F | 41 °F | 8 |
| Jun | 80 °F | 48 °F | 8 |
| Jul | 92 °F | 53 °F | 3 |
| Aug | 91 °F | 52 °F | 3 |
| Sep | 81 °F | 45 °F | 4 |
| Oct | 62 °F | 35 °F | 5 |
| Nov | 45 °F | 28 °F | 7 |
| Dec | 36 °F | 22 °F | 7 |
More to do nearby
- Mallard Creek Falls (waterfall, 13 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
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Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. View on Amazon - Cold-day pick SUN CUBE hooded changing robe poncho Change in and out of a wet suit at a trailhead with no changing room, and stay warm after a winter soak. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Hot springs in the area
- Red River Hot Springs Day pass
- Burgdorf Hot Springs Day pass
- Hospital Bar Hot Springs Free
- Lower Loon Creek Hot Springs Free
- Whitey Cox Hot Springs Free
- Sunflower Hot Springs Free
- Stanley Hot Springs Free
- Sheepeater Hot Springs Free
Waterfalls nearby
- Mallard Creek Falls (13 mi)
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Barth Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Barth Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Barth Hot Springs?
140 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
Is Barth Hot Springs clothing optional?
No, suits required.