Stretch your legs and your itinerary with Idaho’s Hidden Hot Springs Loop, a unique road trip threading together five natural thermal pools off the beaten path. Each soak offers a distinct experience, from forest-guarded springs bubbling amid twisted pines to open pools warmed by the earth’s core and framed by rugged basalt cliffs. The loop’s total drive covers roughly 150 miles, giving you multiple access points to explore on foot or with short hikes ranging from half a mile to about 3 miles.

Start near the small town of McCall, where crystalline Payette Lake dares you to linger before setting off. Your first stop, Gold Fork Hot Springs, welcomes with clear, warm waters that invite both relaxation and easy accessibility—perfect for a quick warm-up soak after your drive. From here, the loop moves south to Burgdorf Hot Springs, a rustic hot spring with a historic vibe and steep trail leading up to scenic river overlooks.

Continue east where the terrain grows more rugged. The trail to Maxwell Hot Springs charts a steady climb through ponderosa pine forests, the path veiled by dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy like nature’s spotlight. At the springs themselves, mineral-rich pools seem to breathe steam into the crisp mountain air. Nearby, the wild currents of Warm Lake push restlessness into your muscles, urging you back to the road.

The final two soaks, Jerry Johnson and Obsidian, require a bit more effort. Jerry Johnson’s springs flow quietly beneath a shroud of maple and cedar, a hidden basin that challenges you to slow down and listen, while Obsidian—named for the volcanic glass embedded around the basin—offers stunning black-rock contrasts against steaming azure waters. Each stop demands respect: hot springs are less conquered territory and more a truce with nature’s fierce heartbeat.

Practical advice: pack sturdy footwear for uneven and sometimes slippery terrain; carry ample water to stay hydrated between soaks, as warm springs can mask dehydration; and time your trip for early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture ideal light. Warning—some springs are on protected land requiring permits or small fees, so check local regulations ahead of time.

Whether soaking after a day of hiking or weaving the loop into a multi-day itinerary, this road trip serves up adventure with no shortage of practical considerations. Here, you’re not just chasing hot springs—you’re following a path where earth and water meet in constant conversation, each pool a chapter in Idaho’s rugged story.