Tenmile Hot Springs

Tenmile Hot Springs is a set of user-built rock pools in the Boise National Forest in the Lowman area, in a grassy, picturesque setting with excellent camping and hiking around it. The honest catch is in the pools themselves: the water temperature is perfect, but the pools are mucky — loaded with silt and algae — and a good soak here takes patience and elbow grease.

Pool Condition

User-built rock pools with sand and silt bottoms, heavy with algae and remnants of old tarps. Temperatures run 100–110°F. Expect to clean and coax a pool into shape before soaking. The walk in is about half a mile of splendid views; the creek ford can be tricky — the makeshift bridge washed out years ago, so expect wet feet and careful log- and rock-hopping.

Seasonal Notes

Pools can submerge at the peak of spring runoff. The Forest Service Road closes in winter; access then is by snowmobile or snowshoe only.

Camping

Camping is available at and just past the pools. At the trailhead, camping within 1/4 mile of Highway 21 is allowed only at sites marked with the international camping symbol (Forest Service Order #0402-05-101). The wildlife watching on the way in can be superb — large herds of elk and deer frequent the area.

Tenmile Hot Springs Soak Stats

• Access Type: Hike (approx. 0.5 miles, creek ford)
• Public Land: Boise National Forest
• Elevation: 4,500 ft
• Water Temperature: 100–110°F
• Water Clarity: Murky
• Visibility: Moderate-low
• Odor(s): Slight
• Nearest Area: Lowman
• Wildlife: Turkey, deer, elk
• Usage Level: Low