Outdoors NearbyGold Fork Hot Springs
Six rock pools fed by alkaline mineral water step down a hillside at 1026 Gold Fork Road east of Donnelly. A sandy pool is set aside for children. Gold Fork Hot Springs sells day passes, so you don't need to stay overnight.
| Access | Day passes for the public Pay at the gate in cash; no reservations. |
|---|---|
| Type | Developed pools, 6 pools |
| Location | Donnelly, ID Managed by Private operator Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | six pools from 85 to 110 °F |
| Prices | Admission: $10.00 (adults and children, cash only) Checked October 2026 on the operator's site |
| Hours | Noon–8 pm, closed Tuesdays |
| Season | Year-round; the dirt access road varies by season and AWD is strongly recommended in winter |
| Reservations | not needed |
| Clothing | suits required |
| Ages | all ages noon–4 pm; ages 11 and older after 4 pm |
| Website | goldforkhotsprings.com |
Best time to soak: Gold Fork Hot Springs
Gold Fork Hot Springs sits about 74 miles north of Boise, ID; driving distance is a bit longer.
Soaking feels best when the air is cool. From October to April average highs near Donnelly stay at 32 to 58 °F, with nights down to 15 °F. Expect frost from November to April. Check road and trail conditions with the land manager before driving up. December is the wettest month with about 10 days of rain or snow. High water in spring can cover riverside pools.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 32 °F | 15 °F | 8 |
| Feb | 37 °F | 17 °F | 6 |
| Mar | 45 °F | 24 °F | 8 |
| Apr | 53 °F | 30 °F | 7 |
| May | 63 °F | 37 °F | 6 |
| Jun | 70 °F | 43 °F | 5 |
| Jul | 82 °F | 48 °F | 2 |
| Aug | 82 °F | 47 °F | 2 |
| Sep | 73 °F | 40 °F | 3 |
| Oct | 58 °F | 31 °F | 5 |
| Nov | 42 °F | 25 °F | 8 |
| Dec | 32 °F | 16 °F | 10 |
More to do nearby
- Manchester Ice Rink and Events Center (indoor ice rink, 18 mi)
- Driessen Falls (waterfall, 28 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- 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
- Earth Pak roll-top waterproof dry bag Keeps your phone, keys and dry clothes safe on wet rocks next to the pool. View on Amazon
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. 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
- Trail Creek Hot Springs Free
- Vulcan Hot Springs Free
- Council Mountain Hot Springs Free
- Silver Creek Plunge Day pass
- Rocky Canyon Hot Springs Free
- Zims Hot Springs Day pass
- Sheepeater Hot Springs Free
- Burgdorf 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
Is Gold Fork Hot Springs free?
Admission: $10.00 (adults and children, cash only), according to the operator as of October 2026. Prices change, so check before you go.
How hot is Gold Fork Hot Springs?
Six pools from 85 to 110 °F.
Is Gold Fork Hot Springs clothing optional?
No, suits required.
When is Gold Fork Hot Springs open?
Noon–8 pm, closed Tuesdays. Year-round; the dirt access road varies by season and AWD is strongly recommended in winter.
How far is Gold Fork Hot Springs from Boise?
About 74 miles from Boise in a straight line; the drive is longer.