Sunbeam Hot Springs

Sunbeam Hot Springs, Idaho | Riverside Geothermal Retreat Near Stanley & Sawtooth Mountains

Tucked along the Salmon River in Idaho’s breathtaking Salmon-Challis National Forest, Sunbeam Hot Springs offers a raw, riverside soaking experience just 12 miles east of Stanley and 2 hours from Sun Valley. Known for its natural rock-lined pools fed by a scalding hillside spring, this free, no-frills oasis beckons adventurers, nature lovers, and road-trippers eager to unwind amid the Sawtooth Range’s towering beauty.

Key Features & Highlights

• Adjustable Riverside Pools: Soak in hand-built rock tubs (90°F–110°F) where hot springs (up to 120°F) mix with the Salmon River—tweak the flow to find your perfect temp.

• Free & Accessible: No fees, no reservations—open 24/7, first-come, first-served, right off Highway 75.

• Geothermal Source: Mineral-rich water bubbles from the earth, offering a soothing escape with a faint sulfur kick.

• Scenic Sawtooth Views: Relax with panoramic vistas of rugged peaks and the rushing Salmon River rapids.

• Year-Round Access: Paved road in summer; winter requires snow tires or 4WD for the Highway 75 pullout.

Activities & Tips

• Sawtooth Exploration: Pair your soak with hiking in the Salmon-Challis National Forest or boating at Redfish Lake (15 minutes west).

• Winter Bliss: Warm up after snowmobiling the Stanley Basin or skiing the Sawtooths—ideal for chilly days.

• Photography Haven: Capture sunrise steam against the river and peaks, or the old Sunbeam Dam ruins nearby.

• Beat the Rush: Hit it early morning or late fall; summer weekends draw small crowds to this roadside gem.

• Hot Springs Loop: Combine with Boat Box Hot Springs (25 minutes west) or Kirkham Hot Springs (1 hour south).

Pro Tips for Your Visit

• Pack Smart: Bring a towel, water shoes (rocky riverbank), and a bag for trash—no facilities here.

• Pet Policy: Leashed dogs welcome nearby, but keep them out of the pools.

• Sustainability: Protect this natural spot—skip soaps, oils, and littering to keep it pristine.

Important Notes

• Admission: Free (consider donating to local forest conservation efforts).

• Hours: Open 24/7, though winter snow may limit access—check Idaho Transportation Department for Highway 75 conditions.

• Rules: Clothing-optional (be respectful), no alcohol, and a 30-minute limit if others are waiting.

What Makes Sunbeam Unforgettable

Sunbeam Hot Springs isn’t your average dip—it’s a DIY geothermal retreat where Idaho’s wild pulse hums. Hot water pours from a hillside spring at 110°F–120°F, cooling into riverside pools you can tweak just right, all while the Salmon River churns below and the Sawtooths stand guard. I’ve lingered here at dusk, steam curling up as the sky blazed orange, feeling like the only soul for miles. Free, untamed, and framed by nature’s best—it’s Idaho soaking at its purest.

Plan Your Visit

• Location: State Hwy 75, Milepost 169.5, Stanley, ID 83278 (look for the pullout 12 miles east of Stanley, near the Sunbeam Dam sign).

• Contact: No official website—check Stanley visitor centers or local forums for real-time updates.