Skinnydipper Hot Springs

Skinnydipper Hot Springs is currently under a 10-year closure effective from June 21, 2016, to June 21, 2026.

The 10-year closure involves proposed restoration efforts by the BLM, which include dismantling the improved pools and removal of the access trail. Since 2012, Skinnydipper Hot Springs has been closed at night. This page will be updated as more becomes known.

Skinnydipper is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Boise, followed by a 0.5-mile hike up steep switchbacks to the actual hot springs. Visiting should be avoided during inclement weather. Roads and the trail can become treacherous quickly.

Skinnydipper Hot Springs Pictures

Skinnydipper is one of Idaho’s more recent public natural hot springs discoveries. In 1994-95, Hot Springs Harley and Keeper Ken found and cultivated the hot springs into what it is today. The 0.5-mile hike up from the Banks-Lowman Highway pullout is steep and treacherous at times. A loose-knit group of volunteers known as “Keepers” maintain the trail, pools and plumbing. Weekend and summer partying can get out of hand. Fights, vandalism and vehicle break-ins have been known to occur during peak usage. Harley and Ken can usually be found at Skinnydipper on any given Sunday, busily picking up trash and maintaining the trial and pools.

The Lowdown on Skinny

It’s popular, so go on the weekdays or in the morning or both if you can. Luckily, there are usually 2 or 3 pools in good working order. Thus, decent space to accommodate moderate-sized groups of people. Lock up your vehicle and hide your valuables, as theft has been on the rise in the parking area.

Pool Description

Skinnydipper features a chain of 3 to 4 rock and mortar reinforced, sand and gravel bottomed pools with adjustable temperatures overlooking a breathtaking valley in the Boise National Forest.

Seasonal Information

Be wary of the mud and rock slides that are a common occurrence along the Banks-Lowman Highway, especially during Spring and Fall. The trail up to the pools can get slippery and FAST! The same goes for the winter season, except the trail is layered with thick sheets of ice and snow. Rain gear is always nice to have for ‘just in case’ reasons. Otherwise, Skinny is accessible virtually all year round!

Camping

There are plenty of area Boise National Forest developed and undeveloped (primitive) campsites within 10 to 20 minutes from the pullout.

Fees

None. Skinnydipper is a public hot springs located on BLM land.

Special Considerations

Skinnydipper has only been around since the mid to late 90s – much unlike the rest of Idaho’s natural hot springs. It is also one of Idaho’s most abused hot springs and survives primarily due to the efforts of volunteer groups like ‘The Keepers’, ‘Boise River Volunteers’ and a few locals. Please remember to not bring any glass (not fun to step on in the pool) and pick up all trash you come across.

Directions

From Boise, take Highway 55 north 35 miles to Banks, Idaho (45 minutes)
Head east from Banks on the Banks-Lowman Highway to the mile marker 4 sign and trailhead parking area (15 minutes)
Cross the road and find the well-used and visible trail that heads north, up the side of the mountain
Follow the switchbacks all the way up before dropping down to the pools (.5 mile hike/steep elevation)
Be careful! This hike can be treacherous during inclement weather conditions