Challis Hot Springs
Two open-air pools, a large warm pool and a smaller hot pool, beside the Salmon River outside Challis. The property also runs an RV and tent campground. Challis Hot Springs sells day passes, so you don't need to stay overnight.
| Access | Day passes for the public Day soaking is for adults 18+; families with kids can use the pools as registered campground guests. Call for day-use rates. |
|---|---|
| Type | Developed pools, 2 pools |
| Location | Challis, ID Managed by Private operator Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | large pool about 96 °F in summer and 98–100 °F in winter; hot pool kept close to 105 °F |
| Hours | Summer (mid-March–late October): 8 am–9 pm daily. Winter: closed Mon–Tue; Wed–Thu 9 am–12 pm and 4–8 pm; Fri 9 am–12 pm and 4–9 pm; Sat 9 am–9 pm; Sun 9 am–6 pm; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas |
| Season | year-round |
| Ages | day use 18+ only; all ages for campground guests |
| Facilities | camping |
| Camping | Challis Hot Springs RV and tent campground (0 mi) |
| Website | challishotsprings.com |
| Phone | (208) 879-4442 |
Best time to soak: Challis Hot Springs
From October to April average highs around Challis stay at 29 to 59 °F, with nights down to 11 °F. Expect frost from November to March. Check road and trail conditions with the land manager before driving up.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29 °F | 11 °F | 1 |
| Feb | 37 °F | 17 °F | 1 |
| Mar | 49 °F | 26 °F | 2 |
| Apr | 57 °F | 31 °F | 2 |
| May | 67 °F | 40 °F | 3 |
| Jun | 76 °F | 46 °F | 3 |
| Jul | 87 °F | 52 °F | 2 |
| Aug | 85 °F | 50 °F | 2 |
| Sep | 75 °F | 42 °F | 2 |
| Oct | 59 °F | 32 °F | 2 |
| Nov | 41 °F | 21 °F | 2 |
| Dec | 29 °F | 11 °F | 2 |
More to do nearby
- Central Park Skatepark (skatepark, 3 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- 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
-
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
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
- Goldbug Hot Springs Free
- Sunbeam Hot Springs Free
- Lower Loon Creek Hot Springs Free
- Hospital Bar Hot Springs Free
- Whitey Cox Hot Springs Free
- Elkhorn Hot Springs Free
- Sunflower Hot Springs Free
- Sharkey Hot Springs Day pass
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 Challis Hot Springs cost?
There is a fee for day use. The operator's website has current prices.
How hot is Challis Hot Springs?
Large pool about 96 °F in summer and 98–100 °F in winter; hot pool kept close to 105 °F.
When is Challis Hot Springs open?
Summer (mid-March–late October): 8 am–9 pm daily. Winter: closed Mon–Tue; Wed–Thu 9 am–12 pm and 4–8 pm; Fri 9 am–12 pm and 4–9 pm; Sat 9 am–9 pm; Sun 9 am–6 pm; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. year-round.
Can you camp near Challis Hot Springs?
Challis Hot Springs RV and tent campground (0 mi).