Fifth Water Hot Springs Trail

Fifth Water Hot Springs is a fantastic trail for older kids and babies riding in carriers. The trail is a good mix and climbing and descending, not too steep, and really beautiful the whole way. It’s most easily accessible in late spring, summer, and fall. The trail is about 2.5 miles to the hot springs where there are multiple soaking pools to enjoy and a waterfall too. When you start smelling the sulfur-y aroma of the hot springs, you know you’re close. Summer is a popular time for this hike, but fall is my absolutely favorite time to visit the hot springs because the outside temperature is low enough to actually enjoy the hot springs and the fall leaves are absolutely gorgeous. It’s doable for younger kids, but a bit on the long side, depending on the hiking level of your child. My youngest managed to hike half of it when he was 4, but by 5.5 he could easily do the whole trail. There are steep drop-offs in a couple of spots where handholding would be a must. The main gate to this trailhead is closed in the winter and the road beyond it no longer plowed. The trail is still considered open, but you add about 1.5-2 miles each way. It can be a popular show shoeing hike.

Cell Receptions

None

ADA Accessible

Open Season

Fall,Spring,Summer,Winter

Stroller Friendly

Terrain Type

Dirt

Water Fountain

Bathrooms

Yes

Pet Friendly

Yes

Fee

$0.00

Nearby convenience store

Camping Nearby

Emergency support within 5 miles

Trail Length/Type

5.00 mi., Out & Back

Helpful Trail Information

Creek / River, Natural Play Area, Shaded Hike, and Waterfall The trail follows Fifth Water Creek for most of the hike, so there are plenty of spots where you can stop and toss rocks into the water. The soaking pools have lots of little waterfalls and fun places to play. Each pool is a slightly different temperature, so if the water is too hot or cold, you can always try a different pool. About 75% of the trail is shaded. The water is hottest at the top where the waterfall is. The waterfall is really beautiful. In the summer and on the weekends, this trail can be quite popular. Get there early or risk not having a place to park. The trail has a couple of spots with a steep drop off, so handholding would be a must. It’s rumored that some hikers will bathe in the hot springs in the nude. It’s illegal, but alas, there’s no phone signal to call authorities. We’ve never witnessed it, but be warned. Dogs are allowed on a leash. There are vault toilets at the trailhead, but no trashcans, so you must pack out all of your trash with you; including dirty diapers.

Parking Details

The trailhead parking lot is small; maybe only about 15-20 cars can fit. Parking along the side of the road is prohibited and there will be tickets issued, especially on busy weekends. Sometimes a shuttle service is available for busy times in the spring, summer, and fall. It was $3 per person. You can read the shuttle info for 2019 here: https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_7g1kATHzz4/XT9RAHEnLpI/AAAAAAAARiQ/kkVOsuVzLkYiakFWz1IlxavFNYn0cnlvgCLcBGAs/s1600/67106040_643469579466138_8470178358188048384_n.jpg?fbclid=IwAR3PGwVqzPLJmYYcKWve-u2159A78J5zAhOq1di69Of2daybcu3eda59O6M