Moondipper Hot Springs

Moondipper Hot Springs is a single rock-walled pool on a 2-mile hike along the Middle Fork of the Payette River from the Boiling Springs Guard Station, in the Boise National Forest. It’s the lesser sibling of nearby Pine Burl — a good soak in its narrow window, because Moondipper only works when there’s enough cold creek water to tame a source that runs far too hot on its own.

Pool Condition

One rock-walled pool with a sandy/silty bottom, large enough for several soakers. The water is semi-clear with no odor noticed. Source temperatures vary seasonally from about 100°F to 118°F, so soaking quality depends entirely on mixing in cold creek water.

Seasonal Notes

Best in spring and early summer, when cold creek flow is available for mixing; by late season the pool can be too hot to soak. The Forest Service Road providing access is snow-covered all winter until approximately late May.

Camping

There is a flat, sizeable campsite a bit further past Pine Burl, and another further up the main trail before you depart up the creek to Moondipper. Many primitive and official camping opportunities are available near the forest road.

Moondipper Hot Springs Soak Stats

• Season: Spring, early summer
• Access Type: Hike (2 miles)
• Public Land: Boise National Forest
• Elevation: 4,080 ft
• Water Temperature: 100–118°F (seasonal variance; soakable only when mixed with creek water)
• Water Clarity: Semi-clear
• Visibility: Low-moderate
• Odor(s): None noticed
• Nearest Area: Middle Fork Payette River (Boiling Springs Guard Station)
• Wildlife: Deer, elk, moose
• Usage Level: Moderate