Vulcan Hot Springs
Boiling springs feed a warm creek south of Warm Lake, where visitors have built shallow pools downstream. The walk from the trailhead runs through forest along the creek. Vulcan Hot Springs costs nothing to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Reached on a trail from the Tyndall/Vulcan Trailhead on the Boise National Forest; soaking pools are shallow and depend on hand-built dams. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Cascade, ID Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | 190 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
| Facilities | restroom at trailhead |
| Camping | Dispersed sites at Tyndall / Vulcan Trailhead (5 sites) |
Best time to soak: Vulcan Hot Springs
Coming from Boise, ID? Vulcan Hot Springs lies about 71 miles to the north, straight-line distance.
Hot water is most welcome on cold days. From October to April average highs around Cascade stay at 32 to 58 °F, with nights down to 15 °F. With lows at 15 to 30 °F from November to April, bring warm layers for getting out of the water. December is the wettest month with about 10 days of rain or snow.
| 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
- Dagger Falls (waterfall, 20 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- 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
- 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
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
- Gold Fork Hot Springs Day pass
- Silver Creek Plunge Day pass
- Rocky Canyon Hot Springs Free
- Sheepeater Hot Springs Free
- Council Mountain Hot Springs Free
- Bonneville Hot Springs Free
- Pine Flats Hot Springs Free
Waterfalls nearby
- Dagger Falls (20 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 Vulcan Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Vulcan Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Vulcan Hot Springs?
190 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
Can you camp near Vulcan Hot Springs?
Dispersed sites at Tyndall / Vulcan Trailhead (5 sites).
How far is Vulcan Hot Springs from Boise?
About 71 miles from Boise in a straight line; the drive is longer.