Bernard Warm Springs — also known as Smalley — is a long-forgotten warm spring in the Boise National Forest near Cascade, Idaho. Once a full-fledged hot springs resort, its seldom-used pool now sits inside the remnants of the old resort’s foundation, soaking at a mild 98°F.
Description
The pool has rock and log/tarp walls and a sandy, gravel bottom with a lot of algae and silt — a direct result of how rarely it gets used. The water underneath the algae is clear, with no odor noticed, and deer are sighted in the area.
Seasonal Notes
The Forest Service Road providing access is snow-covered all winter until approximately April or May. A 4×4 is advisable during the wet seasons, and snowmobile access may be possible in the winter months.
Camping
There are a few primitive sites near the springs (not very private), plus many more primitive sites accessible from the main forest road. Beware of poison ivy around the springs.
Bernard Warm Springs Soak Stats
- Season: Summer, fall
- Access Type: Roadside
- Public Land: Boise National Forest
- Elevation: Not documented
- Water Temperature: 98°F
- Water Clarity: Clear (beneath algae and silt)
- Visibility: Moderate-low
- Odor(s): None noticed
- Nearest Town: Cascade
- Wildlife: Deer
- Usage Level: Low
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