About Frenchmans Bend Hot Springs
Frenchmans Bend sits along Warm Springs Creek just 3 miles west of downtown Ketchum, making it one of the quickest wild soaks you can reach from a real town in Idaho. Volunteer-built rock pools line the creek bank in a narrow cottonwood canyon, with hot source water mixing with cold creek water so you can adjust temperatures by shifting a few rocks.
Directions to Frenchmans Bend Hot Springs
43.6412, -114.4907
From Ketchum, head west on Warm Springs Road for about 3 miles. Watch for a small dirt pullout on the left (south) side near a bend in the creek. Parking fits a handful of vehicles. From the pullout, follow an informal trail about 100 yards down to the creek and pools. Road is paved most of the way with a short gravel section. No high-clearance needed.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. Fall foliage peaks in September-October and the canyon looks its best. Spring runoff can submerge lower pools. Winter soaking is popular with locals.
Tips
- ✓Weekday mornings are your best bet for having pools to yourself.
- ✓Pools are volunteer-maintained. Reshape them if needed and leave them better than you found them.
- ✓Bring water shoes for the rocky creek bank.
- ✓Test pool temps before getting in; pools near the source can scald.
- ✓Winter trail can be icy, so wear boots with good traction.
- ✓Pack out all trash, including litter from previous visitors.
- ✓Parking is very limited; carpool or visit off-peak.
