Panther (Big Creek) Hot Springs
Open
Usable year-round.Open seasons
- Access
- Panther Creek, near Shoup (in winter, park at the base of the hill and hike up because of ice on the steep, narrow road).
- Accommodations
- Primitive campsites nearby.
Formerly popular because of a huge soaking pool, which was overrun with debris after multiple stream blowouts, Panther now consists of a couple on again, off again small, dug-out pools bordered with rocks. The rock sauna is a unique, welcoming feature – just watch out for all of the spiders.
Pool Condition
All of the carved-out pools feature rock walls, gravel and rock bottoms and are at most 3 feet deep and 4-6 feet wide. They will require revamping and cleaning on occasion because of low use. The location and condition of the pools changes with the seasons.
Dates Visited: 05.14.03; Trash Levels: Light; Bug Levels: None (tadpoles aplenty); Water Clarity: Semi-Clear; Visibility: Moderate; Odor(s): None
Wildlife Sighted: Deer, Elk, Tadpoles
Seasonal Notes
Panther is usable year-round. During the winter months it’s common to park at the base of the hill and hike up to the hot springs due to ice (and the steep drop off/narrow road).
Camping Notes
There are primitive sites nearby, the closest official campground is at Panther Creek.
Panther Hot Springs Soak Stats
- Public land: Salmon-Challis National Forest
- Overall Rating: B
- Elevation: 4,400 ft
- Water Temperature: Varies
- Area: Shoup Area
- Usage Level: Low-Moderate
Safety Note
Use caution — hot spring water in the Salmon-Challis National Forest can be near or above boiling temperature and can cause severe, possibly fatal, burns. Always test the water before entering, and keep a close eye on children and pets.
More East-Central Idaho hot springs →
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Panther Hot Springs like?
Small dug-out, rock-walled pools no more than 3 feet deep and 4–6 feet wide on Panther Creek, plus a rock sauna. A huge former pool was destroyed by stream blowouts.
How hot is it?
Temperatures vary by pool. National Forest spring water can be near or above boiling, so test the water before entering.
When can you go?
Usable year-round. In winter, park at the base of the hill and hike up because of ice on the steep, narrow road.
Can you camp?
Primitive campsites are nearby.
Where is it?
On Panther Creek in the Salmon-Challis National Forest near Shoup. It is also known as Big Creek Hot Springs.
Discover more from IdahoHotSprings.com
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Join the Community on Facebook
Stay updated on seasonal road closures, wildfire impacts, soaking conditions and community preservation efforts across Idaho.
Follow Idaho Hot Springs on Facebook
