Idaho Adventure: Kirkham Hot Springs

Here at KBOI 2, Adventure Starts with Weather!

No matter what the temperatures are outside, this is one Idaho adventure you’ll enjoy.

Many adventurers know that a short walk through the Kirkham campground will lead you to small soaking pools, and steamy waterfalls, nestled along the south fork of the Payette River in Lowman, ID.

"People come up here to get away from the craziness and just relax," said Carol Stockton, Lowman, ID.

Soaking pools are situated up near the campground, or you can venture down along the riverbank to a more secluded spot.

"This one is right on the same level as the parking lot, which is nice for me," said Stockton.

No matter which place you find to soak the swift-moving river, or sounds of steamy hot water cascading down the hillside, make you feel like you're in the middle of nowhere.

"With the location of Kirkham, being right off the highway, they're able to enjoy it for the weekend, a good little day trip and get back to Boise," said Mathue Fasching, Recreation Program Manager with USDA Forest Service.

The limited snowfall this year has allowed more folks to enjoy the hot springs.

"A big increase in use compared to last year because the roads were always so terrible last year," said Fasching.

However, the lack of snow isn't so good for some businesses.

"Last year, of course, we quite an abundance of snow that meant a lot of people snowmobiling, winter sports, things like that, this year with the lack of snow we haven't had that, which means we haven't had as many people coming through our community," said Catherine Burbank, Lowman Inn.

Those who live in Lowman are hoping next year will bring a better mix that will benefit everyone.

"It would be nice to have a happy medium because it's just so still and quiet and pristine and peaceful when there's a blanket of snow," said Lowman.

There is a 'Pack It In, Pack It Out' policy for the hot springs during the winter months.

Campground services typically become available starting Memorial Day weekend.

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