Lunchbreak Warm Springs

Lunchbreak Warm Springs is a medium-sized, lukewarm — not hot — soak on the far side of the Salmon River in the White Cloud Mountains, in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area near Stanley, Idaho. A single rock-walled pool, a sandy beach, and picnic facilities make it a favorite stop for river floaters on a hot summer day.

Description

One pool with rock walls and a sandy, silty bottom — the bottom is also the source, with warm water percolating up through it. The water is clear with no odor. The spring sits at the end of a bumpy, single-track road on the opposite side of the river from Highway 75, near Slate Creek Hot Springs. Expect company from the river: floaters of all types stop here, and both highway and river traffic are part of the scene.

Seasonal Notes

The pool is buried under spring runoff, and the access road closes during winter.

Camping

Plenty of primitive sites along the forest road and many primitive and official campgrounds along Highway 75. Large, flat sites sit on the bench above the pool, complete with pit toilets.

Lunchbreak Warm Springs Soak Stats

• Access Type: Roadside (single-track forest road)
• Public Land: Sawtooth National Forest / Sawtooth National Recreation Area
• Elevation: 5,690 ft
• Water Temperature: Lukewarm
• Water Clarity: Clear
• Visibility: High
• Odor(s): None
• Nearest Area: White Cloud Mountains, near Stanley
• Wildlife: Deer
• Usage Level: Low-moderate