Winter Hiking to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, Idaho

Radd Icenoggle

January 31, 2024

Hiking 2019

Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is located a tad over a mile from the Lochsa River in Idaho. The hike starts with a crossing of the Lochsa River, followed by a gentle hike along Warm Springs Creek. On this day, I had the entire place to myself from the parking lot to the pools themselves. The sign at the trailhead states that you may encounter the occasional nude dipper. Well, when in Rome (especially when you are by yourself) – I shed my winter clothing and quickly plunged into the comfortably warm waters of the second of the 3 major pools.

I really appreciated the solitude of this last day of 2015. Soaking au naturale in the hot water as I am surrounded by cold winter air and the sound of the rushing creek caused my mind to focus on the experience. No reason of converse with others or manage a smile at their dog’s nose firmly planted in my crotch. Just solid alone time in the steam.

Getting to the Trailhead

From Powell (home of the Lochsa Lodge, a great spot for an after-soak adult beverage), take Highway 12 west for just over 10 miles to a large pullout marked Warm Springs Trailhead. Park and hike.

Winter Wonderland: A Hike to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs

As someone who thrives on outdoor adventures, I’ve always been intrigued by the idea of hiking through a winter landscape to find a natural hot spring. That’s exactly what I did when I ventured out to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs in middle of nowhere Idaho. Wrapped in a blanket of snow, this destination promised a unique blend of icy trails and steamy, soothing waters – a combination I couldn’t resist.!

The Journey Begins

Starting from the trailhead, which is conveniently located off Highway 12, I embarked on a roughly 1.5-mile trek. The path, cushioned with fresh snow, wound through a dense forest of evergreens. Their branches, heavy with snow, formed a natural archway that seemed to welcome me into their world.

The air was crisp and invigorating, filled with the silence that only winter can bring. Every step I took was accompanied by the soft crunch of snow, reminding me that in this vast wilderness, it was just nature and me. I couldn’t help but stop occasionally to admire the frozen beauty around me – the way icicles clung to the rocks and how the river alongside the trail glistened under the winter sun.

The Reward: Jerry Johnson Hot Springs

The real magic began when I reached Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. The contrast was surreal – there I was, surrounded by snow, yet in front of me were these steaming natural pools, as if they were defying the very essence of winter. Shedding my layers and easing into the warm, mineral-rich water was an experience that’s hard to put into words. It was a blend of relief, awe, and pure bliss.

The hot springs offer several pools of varying temperatures, nestled among rocks and trees. As I soaked, it felt like I had discovered a secret, sacred place where time stood still. The steam rising into the cold air, the sound of the nearby river, and the sheer serenity of the surroundings made it an almost meditative experience.

Heading Back

Reluctantly, after a couple of hours, I knew it was time to head back. The hike back was reflective and filled with a sense of relaxation. As the warmth of the hot springs lingered on my skin, I felt a deep connection with nature – a reminder of its powerful, rejuvenating properties.

Visiting Jerry Johnson Hot Springs in the winter was more than just a hike; it was a journey that awakened my senses and rekindled my love for the great outdoors. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that challenge you, surprise you, and ultimately, leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

For anyone seeking an adventure that combines the thrill of a winter hike with the relaxation of natural hot springs, Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is a destination I highly recommend. Just remember to respect the environment, stay safe, and soak in every moment of this unique experience.