Frenchman's Bend Hot Springs

Frenchman’s Bend Hot Spring, Idaho | Scenic Riverside Soaking Near Ketchum & Sun Valley

Tucked along the banks of Warm Springs Creek, just 11 miles west of Ketchum and Sun Valley, Frenchman’s Bend Hot Spring (aka Frenchman’s Hot Spring or Warfield Hot Spring) is a beloved natural soaking spot offering a tranquil retreat in Idaho’s stunning backcountry. Surrounded by rugged mountains and forest, this geothermal haven is perfect for relaxation after a day of hiking, biking, or skiing in the Wood River Valley.

Key Features & Highlights

• Naturally Heated Pools: Rock-walled pools, with temperatures that can be adjusted by altering water flow, sit along the creek’s edge, allowing bathers to mix hot spring water with cool river flow for the perfect soak.

• Scenic Wilderness Setting: Enjoy breathtaking views of Warm Springs Creek and the surrounding Sawtooth National Forest.

• Free & Easy Access: No entrance fees or reservations required—just a short walk from the limited parking area to the pools.

• Best Times to Visit: Accessible year-round, though check road conditions in winter before visiting.

Activities & Tips

• Outdoor Adventures: Pair your soak with hiking, mountain biking, or fly fishing along Warm Springs Creek.

• Winter Relaxation: Ideal for unwinding after skiing at Sun Valley Resort or snowshoeing in the backcountry.

• Photography Favorite: Capture steam rising against a snowy backdrop in winter or golden aspens in fall.

• Avoid Crowds: Visit early mornings or weekdays, as this spot is popular with locals and tourists alike.

Pro Tips for Your Visit

• Pack Essentials: Bring water shoes for the rocky bottom, a towel, and extra layers for chilly evenings.

• Leave No Trace: Respect nature—avoid soaps, pack out all trash, and help keep the springs pristine.

• Clothing Required: The Forest Service has a sign indicating no nudity.

Important Notes

• Admission: Free.

• Hours: Closed between 10 pm and 4 am.

• Location: Warm Springs Road, Ketchum, ID 83340 (approx. 11 miles west of Ketchum; look for roadside parking near the creek).

• Road Conditions: The last few miles are unpaved and can be rough.

What Makes Frenchman’s Bend Hot Spring Unforgettable

Frenchman’s Bend Hot Spring isn’t just a dip—it’s a slice of Idaho’s soul, where wilderness meets accessibility in a way that feels almost too good to be true. Tucked off a quiet bend near Sun Valley, it’s the kind of place where you can roll up after a Ketchum coffee run and still feel a million miles from civilization. The springs bubble up into natural pools that hug the earth, framed by sagebrush and distant peaks, offering a soak that’s as peaceful as it is unpretentious. I’ve watched elk graze nearby at dusk while steam rose off the water—it’s not fancy, but it’s the real deal, and that’s why it sticks with you.”