Boat Box Hot Springs

Boat Box Hot Spring, Idaho | Rustic Riverside Soaking Tub Near Stanley & Sawtooth Mountains

Nestled along the Salmon River in central Idaho’s rugged Sawtooth Valley, Boat Box Hot Spring offers a quirky, intimate geothermal escape just 5 minutes from Stanley and 2.5 hours from Sun Valley. Famous for its lone, cast-iron tub fed by natural mineral springs, this no-frills, roadside gem is ideal for adventurers, photographers, and spontaneity seekers craving a quick soak amid jaw-dropping mountain scenery.

Key Features & Highlights

• Iconic Single Tub: Relax in a vintage cast-iron tub (102°F–108°F) perched riverside, filled by a hand-built pipe from nearby geothermal springs. Fits 2–3 people max.

• Free & Accessible: No fees or reservations—first-come, first-served. Open 24/7, weather permitting.

• Mineral-Rich Waters: Sulfur-infused springs believed to ease muscle tension and boost circulation.

• Stunning Alpine Views: Soak with panoramic vistas of the Sawtooth Mountains and Salmon River rapids.

• Year-Round Access: Reachable via Highway 75 (paved) in summer; winter visits require snow tires or 4WD.

Activities & Tips

• Sawtooth Adventures: Pair your soak with hiking in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area or fishing at Redfish Lake (10 minutes away).

• Winter Magic: Warm up after skiing at Galena Lodge or snowmobiling the Stanley Basin.

• Photography Hotspot: Arrive at sunrise or sunset for golden-hour shots of the tub against mountain backdrops.

• Avoid Crowds: Visit early morning or weekdays. Wait times common midday in summer.

• Hot Springs Circuit: Combine with nearby Sunbeam Hot Springs (25 minutes east) or Kirkham Hot Springs (1.5 hours south).

Pro Tips for Your Visit

• Pack Light: Bring a towel, water shoes (rocky entry), and a trash bag (pack out all waste). No changing facilities.

• Pet Policy: Leashed dogs allowed nearby but keep them out of the tub.

• Sustainability: Preserve the site—avoid soaps, oils, and littering.

Important Notes

• Admission: Free (donations to local trail groups appreciated).

• Hours: Accessible 24/7, but winter road conditions may limit entry. Check Idaho Transportation Department for Highway 75 updates.

• Rules: Clothing-optional (respect others’ privacy), no alcohol, and 30-minute soak limit if others are waiting.

What Makes Boat Box Unforgettable

This isn’t just a soak—it’s a front-row seat to Idaho’s wild heart. The cast-iron tub, a roadside relic fed by sulfur-rich springs, cradles you at 102°F–110°F while the Salmon River roars below and the Sawtooths loom above. It’s free, fits just 2–3, and demands no reservations—just timing and a tolerance for its rustic charm.

Plan Your Visit
Location: Highway 75, Milepost 169.5, Stanley, ID 83278 (look for small pullout 4.5 miles north of Stanley).
Contact: No official website—check local Stanley visitor centers for real-time access updates.