Natural hot spring · Idaho
Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring
Lemhi County, Idaho · 36 miles west of Salmon, ID
Last updated
- Type
- Natural Natural hot spring
- Water temperature
- 108°F (42°C) at the source
- Cost
- Not recorded
- Hours or season
- Not recorded
- Clothing
- Not recorded
- Nearest town
- Salmon, ID (36 mi / 58 km)
- Coordinates
- Pools or sources
- 1
- Historical record only: this spring has not been confirmed on the ground since 1981 and may be on private land.
About Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring
Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring is a natural hot spring in Lemhi County, Idaho, about 36 miles west of Salmon, ID. The nearest large city is Butte, MT, roughly 121 miles away as the crow flies.
The temperature at the source has been recorded at 108°F (42°C). That puts it in the "very hot" range. Hotter than a hot tub. Enter slowly, keep soaks short and get out if you feel dizzy.
It is a natural spring with little or no development. Some natural springs have rock pools you can sit in, while others are too hot, too shallow or on land where soaking is not allowed.
This spring comes from the US federal Thermal Springs List compiled in 1981. Nobody has confirmed it on the ground for this directory since, so treat the details as historical. Many springs on that list sit on private ranch land, so never visit without permission.
Water temperature
Very hot. Hotter than a hot tub. Enter slowly, keep soaks short and get out if you feel dizzy.
Readings come from the NOAA thermal springs list, and other public sources. Temperatures change with season, flow and pool design. See our soak temperature guide for safe soaking times.
Map and directions
Red marks Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring. Other colored dots are nearby springs in this directory. Coordinates: 45.04200, -114.61600.
Getting there
- Nearest town: Salmon, ID. The spring is about 36 miles (58 km) west of town in a straight line.
- Nearest large city: Butte, MT, about 121 miles (195 km) in a straight line.
- Planning from a city? See hot springs near Missoula, MT.
- Use the directions buttons above for a driving route. Final roads to many springs are unpaved, seasonal or closed in winter, so check road conditions before you go.
Weather forecast
Live forecast for this exact spot from the US National Weather Service.
Hot springs near Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring
- Mormon Ranch Warm Spring 117°F
- Hospital Hot Spring 115°F
- Loon Creek Hot Spring 120°F
- Cox Hot Springs 131°F
- Owl Creek Hot Springs 122°F
- Big Creek Hot Springs 199°F
Before you go
- Check the operator, land manager or park website for current hours, fees and closures. Details in any directory can go out of date.
- Pack out everything you bring, including food scraps. Do not use soap in natural pools.
- Keep your head above water. Warm fresh water can carry Naegleria fowleri, a rare but deadly amoeba that enters through the nose.
- Drink water, limit soaks to 10 to 20 minutes at a time in very hot water, and skip alcohol.
- Read our hot spring etiquette guide and safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring?
The temperature at the source has been recorded at 108°F (42°C), which is very hot. Hotter than a hot tub. Enter slowly, keep soaks short and get out if you feel dizzy.
Where is Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring?
Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring is in Lemhi County, Idaho, about 36 miles west of Salmon, ID. The GPS coordinates are 45.0420, -114.6160.
Can you soak at Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring?
Natural springs vary. Some have pools built by visitors, others are too hot or shallow, and some are on private land or in areas where bathing is banned. Check local rules and test the water before you get in.
What hot springs are near Snowshoe Johnsons Hot Spring?
The closest listed spring is Mormon Ranch Warm Spring, about 7.6 miles southwest. Hospital Hot Spring is about 17 miles away.
What should I bring to a hot spring?
Water to drink, a towel, sandals with grip, a bag to pack out trash, and warm layers for after your soak. At primitive springs bring a headlamp and tell someone where you are going.
Sources and corrections
This listing combines the NOAA NCEI Thermal Springs List. Data last refreshed August 2026. Source 1
Visited recently? Send a correction, such as a temperature reading, fee, closure or photo. If you look after this spring and want it removed, see removal requests.