Kirkham Hot Springs

Kirkham Hot Springs is located next to the South Fork Payette River just east of Lowman, Idaho, along State Highway 21 at an elevation of 4,000 feet. Visitors enjoy soaking in popular Kirkham Hot Springs on the banks of the river and exploring the scenic Kirkham Ridge Trail.

Currently the site is open to access the hot springs, but visitors should be aware there are no services, including vault toilet cleaning, taking place. The entrance gate across the bridge is shut, but users can park in the lot off the Highway and walk in. There is no charge for using the site during this time.

Kirkham Hot Springs is open for DAY USE ONLY from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm and NO OVERNIGHT CAMPING. Visitors will approach a locked gate, then cross the bridge to enter the site. 

Natural Features:

The area offers little shade, though a few Ponderosa pines are scattered throughout the site. The site can be very hot and sunny during the summer. Wildflowers dot the landscape.

Recreation:

Kirkham Hot Springs is located at the river's edge.  A trail leads down to the soaking pools and small steaming waterfalls. Take caution walking on rock surfaces near the hot springs. They are uneven and can be slick when wet.

Pets are welcome. Please keep them leashed at all times and away from the hot spring pools and runoff areas.

The South Fork Payette River offers whitewater rafting, kayaking and trout fishing. The Deadwood and Danskin River Access areas are nearby on the road to Garden Valley. Kirkham Ridge Trail is one of the Lowman Ranger District's premier trails. It begins less than 1/4-mile away and stretches through beautiful country for 35 miles, connecting with many other trails in the area. It is open to hiking, mountain biking and horses. Sections of the trail are open seasonally to off-road vehicles.

Nearby Attractions:

Numerous natural hot springs pools can be found along Highway 21, also known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, and the Banks-Lowman Highway, also known as the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway. Both byways offer scenic views, wildlife watching, historical information kiosks and several trail opportunities.

Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities on the South Fork and Main Payette Rivers. Several companies in the area offer guided half and full-day trips.