About 10 Mile Hot Springs
Rock-lined pools along the South Fork of the Payette River, just steps from roadside parking on the Banks-Lowman Highway near Lowman. Source water comes out around 120°F and flows into pools maintained by local soakers over the years. Sizes range from two-person basins to pools fitting six or eight. Cold river water can be channeled in to cool things down.
Directions to 10 Mile Hot Springs
44.0978, -115.3767
From Boise, take Highway 21 about 65 miles through Idaho City to Lowman. Continue west on the Banks-Lowman Highway for 10 miles. Springs are on the south side along the South Fork Payette. Look for roadside pullouts and parked cars. Very short walk from pullout to pools. From Banks, drive east on the Banks-Lowman Highway about 20 miles.
Best Time to Visit
August through October, when river levels are low and the most pools are accessible. Spring runoff (May-June) often submerges the pools. Winter access depends on highway conditions.
Tips
- ✓Arrive early on weekends; the small pullouts fill quickly in peak season.
- ✓Bring water shoes for the rocky riverbank and slippery pool edges.
- ✓Test pool temperatures before getting in. Source water is very hot near the vents.
- ✓Late summer and early fall have the lowest river levels and most usable pools.
- ✓Pack out all trash; there are no facilities here.
- ✓Combine with Pine Flats, Kirkham, and Rocky Canyon for a multi-spring day along the highway.
- ✓Bring drinking water and snacks. Lowman has very limited services.
