RV Travel to this Hidden Hot Spring in Idaho
If you're looking for a unique and remote natural hot springs experience, look no further than Goldbug Hot Springs in Salmon, Idaho. Nestled among the stunning mountains of the Salmon-Ch National Forest, this hot springs attraction offers breathtaking views and crystal-clear water that will take your breath away. In this blog post, we'll provide some helpful tips and insights for RVers looking to visit Goldbug Hot Springs, including how to get there and where to stay nearby. So pack your bags, grab your swimsuit, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the most beautiful places in the country!
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How to Get to Goldbug Hot Springs
There are a few routes you can use depending on where you’re beginning your travels from. We traveled with our Grand Design fifth wheel and had no trouble utilizing the roads that lead to Salmon from the south. We have also verified with fellow RVers that the way in from the north is just as beautiful and accessible for almost any size rig!
Something of note, however, is that there may not be a ton of stops along the way so ensure that you fuel up as you come across fuel stations so that you can have one less thing to worry about during your exploration!
A bonus destination, if you’re coming from Boise, is the Shoshone Falls. The city of Salmon is slightly north of Elk Bend RV Park, but if you have a chance to see it, it’s a cute little spot to visit. There is much to do in this entire area, regardless of which way you come in. Be sure to check out the Salmon Idaho tourism site for more information! Remember, the biggest things to look out for when traveling with your RV or motorhome are tunnel and bridge clearances. Know your rig’s height!
Where to Camp near Goldbug?
We chose to stay at Elk Bend RV Park, which is about 1/2 a mile from the Goldbug Hot Springs Trailhead. They have full hook-up sites, and you can’t beat the proximity to this incredible attraction! Elk Bend RV Park also gets bonus points for their awesome recommendations and for having a restaurant across the street! Alternatively, there are a few more RV parks in Salmon, but if you’re coming from the south, look into the town of Challis (about 40 minutes of driving to the trailhead.)
There is no camping at the trailhead itself, however, they do allow tent campers along certain parts of the trail, to the hot springs. The Department of Fish & Wildlife also has several locations along the 93 route if you prefer to boondock! We are able to find great boondocking locations on Campendium with reviews and pictures to assess whether or not the area can accommodate our rig. This is important to do so you can avoid any unnecessary stress.
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What to Expect
First, be expecting some other folks to be there and on the trail with you! The crowd was manageable, however, it is something to be aware of if that isn’t your style. There was a good ebb and flow throughout the morning. Hikers would come and go and were happy to share the springs and take turns trying out the various temperature pools.
The hike is about 2 miles in and 2 miles out, beginning with switchbacks and ending with a little scramble so know your limits and come prepared! We did see families and children partaking in the hike, so if your kids are in need of burning energy, this is a really fun place to come spend the day. Along the hike, there are several spots where you can rest and play in the water! The air in summer is filled with the scent of sage bushes and, in general, this hike was so refreshing and beautiful.
So What Are You Waiting For?
Idaho boasts some of the country’s most beautiful settings and what better way to experience it than from your RV! Thinking Goldbug may be too strenuous? Check out this list of other hot springs in the state of Idaho. Always do your research before you go to ensure the trails or springs are open and operational. Another pro tip is to bring a day pack of some sort to ensure you have plenty of snacks and water. Some trails may be deceiving and weather can be a factor!
Here are some other great places to add to your travel list!
