Goldbug Hot Springs

What to expect

Goldbug is a wild hot spring at the top of a short, steep canyon in the hills east of US 93, between Salmon and Challis. Hot water emerges along Warm Spring Creek, and soakers have built about six pools by damming the creek with boulders. The creek drops over small waterfalls between them, so the pools form a staircase. Each one is a different blend of hot spring water and cold creek water, which means you will usually find one that suits you.

The pools are small and shallow, around 1 to 2 feet deep, with sand or gravel bottoms. The water is mostly clear. The largest pool is the one most people head for, and it fills first. From the water you look back down the canyon to the Salmon River valley and the mountains beyond.

Source temperature is listed at about 113°F45°C, but what you sit in depends on the season. In early summer, snowmelt in Warm Spring Creek can make the lower pools cool. In late summer and fall the creek drops and the pools run warmer. In deep winter they can feel lukewarm.

There are no toilets, changing areas, tables or trash cans at the springs. This is a backcountry soak.

Getting there

The trailhead is about 23 miles south of Salmon on US 93, just south of the small community of Elk Bend, near milepost 282.

• From Salmon: Drive south on US 93 along the Salmon River. Past Elk Bend, turn east (left) onto the county-maintained Warm Springs Road and follow it about 0.3 miles to the trailhead at the end of the road.
• From Challis or Stanley: Drive north on US 93 along the Salmon River and turn right onto Warm Springs Road just south of Elk Bend.

The road to the trailhead is well maintained and does not need a high-clearance vehicle. BLM lists the trailhead at about 44.89805, -113.95699.

The trail. The route is about 2 miles each way. Figures for the climb vary between sources, from under 1,000 feet to about 1,350 feet. The first quarter mile crosses private land on a BLM easement. Stay on the trail, keep dogs leashed and be respectful here, because this easement is the only legal way in. After that the path follows the canyon on public land, with bridges and steps along the way. The final half mile is the steepest and rockiest, so pace yourself.

When to go

Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons. The air is cool for the climb and the pools are warm enough to enjoy.

Summer is the busiest time and can be hot on the trail. The canyon is open and dry, with little shade on the climb. Start early and carry more water than you think you need.

Winter brings the fewest people. The trail is often snow-packed and icy, so wear microspikes. Heavy snow can make the drive and hike difficult.

To avoid crowds at any time of year, go early on a weekday and stay away from holiday weekends. The pools are small, and a few groups fill them.

Check the BLM Idaho advisories and closures page before a trip. In October 2026 it listed no closures for Goldbug.

Rules and etiquette

The springs are managed by the BLM Salmon Field Office.

• No fee and no permit for day use.
• Respect the private land. Keep to the trail and leash dogs for the first quarter mile.
• No camping at the trailhead, on the easement or within 500 feet of the springs.
• Clothing is optional at the pools. Nudity is common.
• No soap or shampoo in the pools, including biodegradable products.
• Pack out everything, including toilet paper and food scraps. There are no trash cans.
• Leave glass at home. Broken glass in a gravel-bottomed pool is a real hazard.
• Share the pools. If people are waiting, move to a different one or keep your soak short.

Where to stay nearby

• Along the trail: Several primitive campsites sit along the trail on public land, outside the 500-foot buffer around the pools. There are no facilities.
• Salmon: About 30 minutes north, with motels, restaurants, groceries and gas.
• Challis: Under an hour south. Challis Hot Springs is a developed resort with pools, a campground and lodging.
• Public campgrounds sit along the Salmon River on US 93. Ask the Salmon Field Office (208-756-5400) about current options and fire restrictions.

Safety notes

• The climb: The trail is steep and rocky near the top. Wear proper hiking shoes, not sandals.
• Heat and dehydration: Summer hikes in an exposed canyon combined with a hot soak can wear you out quickly. Carry water and sun protection.
• Rattlesnakes: They are common in this canyon. Watch where you put your hands and feet, especially on warm days.
• Water: Do not drink from the pools or creek without treating it, and keep your head out of the water.
• Ice: In winter, the steps and bridges can be slick.
• Car security: Leave nothing valuable in sight at the trailhead.

Nearby stops worth adding

US 93 follows the Salmon River for this whole stretch, so the drive itself is part of the trip. North of Salmon, Sharkey Hot Springs near Tendoy has built soaking pools on public land. The town of Salmon is also the jumping-off point for rafting trips on the Salmon River.