Smith’s Cabin Hot Springs is a trio of undeveloped hot springs — numbered 1, 2, and 3 — strung along both sides of the Middle Fork Boise River near Troutdale Campground in the Atlanta corridor. All three are filed under “potential”: the first sits on the road side of the river, the second across the river slightly upstream, and the third about 100 yards further up, originating roughly 20 yards above the river. On documented visits, soaking pools were marginal or absent entirely — this is a stop for spring hunters already working the corridor, not a destination soak.
The Springs
#1 (road side) has held a couple of somewhat suitable soaking pools at times — good enough for a foot soak. #2 and #3 (far side) are plainly visible steaming across the river but have not been found with usable pools. Temperatures vary by source and season.
Seasonal Notes
The best access roads into the area have seasonal Forest Service closures, but year-round access runs via the Middle Fork Boise River Road — famously, insanely washboarded.
Camping
Two excellent primitive sites sit nearby, plus the official Troutdale Campground and plenty of other official and primitive camping along the Middle Fork.

Smith’s Cabin Hot Springs Soak Stats
- Access Type: Roadside / river ford (for #2 and #3)
- Public Land: Boise National Forest
- Elevation: 3,600 ft
- GPS: 43.720, -115.617
- Water Temperature: Varies
- Water Clarity: Clear
- Visibility: Low
- Odor(s): None noticed
- Nearest Town: Atlanta area
- Wildlife: Deer, elk
- Usage Level: Low-moderate
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