About Fifth Water Hot Springs
Also called Diamond Fork Hot Springs, this is a series of blue-green mineral pools along Fifth Water Creek in the Uinta National Forest near Spanish Fork. The water gets its color from dissolved silica and calcium. A warm waterfall cascades over a mineral-encrusted rock face into the main pool area. Upper pools near the source run up to 115°F; lower pools where hot water mixes with the creek sit between 95 and 105°F.
Directions to Fifth Water Hot Springs
40.0841, -111.3547
From Salt Lake City, take I-15 south about 55 miles to Spanish Fork (Exit 261). Take US-6 East toward Price for 10 miles, then left onto Diamond Fork Road (FR 029) for 7 miles to Three Forks Trailhead. Parking fills fast on weekends. Follow Fifth Water Trail (Trail 173) 2.5 miles to the springs, with moderate elevation gain and several bridged stream crossings. In winter, the road may close partway, adding distance. Check conditions with the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. Spring and fall offer the best balance of good weather and moderate crowds. Winter soaking with snow on the ground is worth the extra effort, but bring traction devices for the icy trail.
Tips
- ✓Arrive before 8 AM on weekends to secure parking.
- ✓Microspikes or snowshoes needed November through March.
- ✓Glass containers prohibited; pack out all trash.
- ✓Upper pools near the source are extremely hot. Test before entering.
- ✓Sturdy hiking shoes for the trail; water shoes helpful for moving between pools.
- ✓A dry bag keeps your towel and clothes dry on the hike in.
- ✓Weekday visits are dramatically less crowded than weekends.
- ✓National Forest parking pass or America the Beautiful pass may be required.
