Three Forks Hot Springs is a remote, undeveloped, multipool, natural not spring located near the junction of three forks of the Owyhee River. It is a tricky spring to locate with the potential for a dangerous trip depending on weather conditions and where you choose to enter. Though the remote status, and high reputation amongst visitors makes it hard to pass up. The Three Forks Hot Springs and much of the riverbank leading upstream are on unmarked private land. Although the owners have allowed hikers to visit the hot springs, there is no guarantee this will always be the case. Please pack out what you pack in, observe fire restrictions, and respect the landowner’s rights.
When attempting to visit keep the following in mind: The surrounding area is extremely rocky and steep, DO NOT attempt without a vehicle that has high clearance and 4 wheel drive. There have been many cases of people getting stuck and rescued due to weather or being improperly prepared. If it is raining, do not attempt, if it starts raining during your ride in the canyon, STOP DRIVING IMMEDIATELY, and wait 6 hours until it subsides and the road has had a chance to dry. The rain will turn the dry powdery roads into an impassible muddy mess. Attempt with extreme caution and make sure you are well prepared.
When traveling from Burns Junction: Travel 30 miles East on U.S. 95, past the community of Rome. Keep going till you locate a sign reading “Three Forks 35” which will be around mile marker 36, then head South. Stay on the dirt road for around 30 miles until you reach a T-junction, where you will turn right and continue for 2.7 miles to the canyon rim. The last 1.3 mile drop into the canyon is extremely steep and rocky, but can be hiked if you are worried about your vehicle. From there, it is three miles to the spring.
When traveling from Three Forks Recreation Site:Â This location is the start of a 5.5 mile looping hiking trail, which will take around 2 hours to complete on foot. From the camp spot, walk east along the road for a half mile and cross the bridge over the North Fork Owyhee. Walk another quarter mile, following the fork to the right, and ford the Middle Fork. Continue uphill for three-quarters of a mile to junction and gate, head right toward the canyon. For the next 1.5 miles, the route will skirt the edge of the canyon rim with the river below and to your right. Descend into the canyon and head downriver, where you will see the springs on the other side. Be cautious in fording the river to the inviting pools. This hike makes a great loop if you want to float the final two miles down river to the boat launch.
The pools themselves have a ranging temp and various sources, but seem to hover around 95 degrees F. Ideal times to visit will be May through October, due to the warm weather.
