A Complete Guide to Visiting Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
In this guide, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan a fun and relaxing getaway to Lava Hot Springs, Idaho—including where to soak, stay, eat, and play! We recently visited Lava Hot Springs on a summer road trip, and it quickly became one of our favorite hidden gems in the Rockies. From playing on the slides at the Olympic Swimming Complex and soaking in world-famous geothermal pools to floating the Portneuf River and exploring quirky downtown shops, this town is packed with small-town charm and big adventure energy. Whether you’re visiting for a family vacation, a couples retreat, or just passing through on a road trip, Lava Hot Springs is absolutely worth the stop. About Lava Hot Springs, Idaho Nestled in a lush valley in southeastern Idaho, Lava Hot Springs is a charming resort town famous for its natural hot springs, crystal-clear river, and laid-back atmosphere. The town’s namesake geothermal pools have been drawing visitors for over a century—and are still the main attraction today. The mineral-rich waters here bubble up from underground at a toasty 102°–112°F and contain no sulfur, so there’s no rotten egg smell—in other words, it doesn’t smell like me! 😆 The town itself is walkable, friendly, and full of candy shops, floating tube rentals, historic museums, and family-friendly lodging options. Before embarking on your adventure, please review the Leave No Trace principles to ensure you leave every place better than you found it, so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for many years to come! These seven principles include planning ahead and preparing, hiking and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly (pack out what you pack in!), understanding campfire rules and always fully extinguishing your fires, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. When to visit Lava Hot Springs 🌷 Spring (March–May) Perfect weather for soaking and strolling. River tubing opens mid-to-late spring depending on water levels. However, be aware that the water will be COLD this time of year! It’s cold year-round honestly, but this time of year is brutal. ☀️ Summer (June–August) Peak season! River floating is at its best. Book lodging and hot springs tickets early—especially on weekends. This cool Idaho town gets busy during the summer, and for good reason. It’s such a fun spot to visit in summer! 🍂 Fall (September–October) Cooler temps = ideal hot spring soaking weather. The town quiets down and the fall colors are stunning in the surrounding hills. ❄️ Winter (November–February) Here comes the snow! You can soak in 112°F water while snowflakes fall around you, which honestly is pretty epic! You’ll have much fewer crowds, but some lodging and dining will be closed. Getting to and around Lava Hot Springs Lava Hot Springs is located in southeastern Idaho, about 2 hours north of Salt Lake City, UT and 45 minutes southeast of Pocatello, ID. Closest Airports: Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) – 45 minutes away Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – 2-hour drive Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) – 1 hour 45 minutes Driving to Lava Hot Springs 🚙 Driving is the best way to get there. The town is small and walkable once you arrive, but you’ll need a vehicle to explore nearby attractions or access campsites. Where to stay in Lava Hot Springs Whether you’re looking for a vintage motel, a family cabin, or a riverside RV site, Lava Hot Springs has something cozy for everyone. 🏨 Hotels & Motels Home Hotel – Located right across from the hot springs, this historic hotel pumps the same mineral water directly into its private soaking tubs. Riverside Hot Springs Inn – Adults-only, historic hotel with private hot soaking rooms. It has an on-site spa and restaurant. Lava Hot Springs Inn – Charming, rustic property with multiple outdoor hot spring pools for guests. It’s also pet-friendly! 🛌 Vacation Rentals Cozy Cottage Downtown – Walk to everything! Cute 2-bedroom house with a deck and full kitchen. Hilltop House with Views – Sleeps 6, modern décor, amazing views, 5-minute drive from downtown. ⛺ Camping & RV Parks Portneuf Bend Campground – We stayed here last time we visited and it was a REALLY awesome campground, and less expensive than the KOA and other campgrounds in the area. This is the campground we recommend the most for its location and cost. Lava Campground – We’ve stayed here as well and they have full hook-ups, shaded spots, and close access to the Portneuf River and tubing. There’s a playground for kids here too! Nu Bend RV Park – Family-friendly campground along the river with great views, grassy sites, and fire pits. KOA Lava Hot Springs – Amenities include a playground, mini-golf, and pool. Great for families. Where to Eat in Lava Hot Springs Despite its size, Lava offers up some fun and tasty dining spots! 🍔 Casual Bites Chuckwagon Diner – American classics, breakfast all day, and friendly service. Blue Moon Bar & Grill – Pub-style eats, burgers, and live music on weekends. Royal Hotel Pizza – Laid-back pizza and salad bar in a vintage hotel setting. 🌯 Unique Eats Greystone Coffee – Grab a latte and pastry from this adorable café inside a historic building. 🍦 Treats & Sweets Sweet Shoppe – Old-school candy store with taffy, fudge, and ice cream. 20 Below Frozen Yogurt – Refreshing froyo bar perfect after a hot soak or river float. What to Bring to Lava Hot Springs As always, we recommend having the 10 essentials on you when venturing into nature, but here are a few key items we want to point out that will especially help you during your visit! To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time at Lava Hot Springs, here are some items we’d suggest bringing with you! ✔️ Swimsuit (or two!) ✔️ Quick-dry towel ✔️ Flip-flops or water shoes ✔️ Sunscreen and hat ✔️ Change of clothes for after the river ✔️ Camera or waterproof phone case ✔️ Reusable water bottle ✔️ Snacks for in between dips! LAYERS
A Complete Guide to Visiting Ouray, Colorado
Photo by Jesse Gariepy In this guide, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit to Ouray—including Box Canyon, the Ouray Hot Springs, the iconic Perimeter Trail, where to stay, where to eat, and all the charm of its historic downtown. We stopped in Ouray during our epic Colorado road trip and immediately understood why it’s nicknamed the “Switzerland of America.” About Ouray, Colorado Photo by Jesse Gariepy Nestled in a dramatic box canyon and surrounded by the towering San Juan Mountains, Ouray is a tiny mountain town full of character and natural beauty. Originally established as a mining town in the 1870s, Ouray still retains its 19th-century charm, with beautifully preserved Victorian buildings, a slow-paced vibe, and endless access to outdoor adventure. Whether you’re here for the healing hot springs, the epic hiking trails, or the charming downtown lined with old storefronts and mom-and-pop shops, Ouray offers the perfect balance of relaxation and rugged exploration. Where to Stay in Ouray Whether you’re splurging or traveling on a budget, Ouray has great options: Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs – Walkable to everything and includes access to its own hot springs—perfect for families. Hotel Ouray – A beautifully restored 1890s building in the heart of downtown. Charming and cozy. Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs – Nestled against the hillside with private hot tubs fed by natural mineral water. A peaceful, rustic escape. Amphitheater Campground – For a more rugged experience, camp just above town with panoramic views and easy access to hiking. Stroll Through Historic Downtown Downtown Ouray is as picturesque as it gets—think old wooden storefronts, ice cream shops, galleries, outfitters, and an opera house that’s still in use. Walking Main Street feels like stepping back into the Old West. Shops range from outdoorsy gear spots to quirky souvenir boutiques. Don’t miss Ouray Alchemist, a combination pharmacy, museum, and curiosity shop with a fascinating private collection of medical oddities and remedies dating back to the 1800s. 🎶 In the summer, you might catch live music at the park or special events that bring the whole community together. Box Cañon Falls and Nature Center Photo by Jesse Gariepy One of the most awe-inspiring sights in Ouray is Box Canyon Falls, a roaring 285-foot waterfall that thunders through a narrow quartzite gorge. You can reach the falls via a short but scenic walk that includes a suspension bridge with epic views and a tunnel that takes you right into the canyon. Admission is only a few dollars, and it’s worth every penny. You’ll also learn about the local geology and ecology from the educational displays near the visitor center. 🗓️ Quick Tip: The falls are especially powerful in spring and early summer Photo by Jesse Gariepy Relax at the Ouray Hot Springs Photo by Jesse Gariepy After a day of adventuring, there’s no better way to unwind than a soak in the Ouray Hot Springs Pool. This beautifully maintained facility offers several geothermally heated pools with varying temperatures—perfect for both kids and adults. The pools are surrounded by mountain views that make the experience feel almost surreal. There’s a lap pool, a shallow kids’ area, and even waterslides for those wanting a little more fun. 💧 Good to know: The water is odorless (no sulfur smell!) and contains over 13 minerals known for their therapeutic benefits. Photo by Jesse Gariepy Hike the Perimeter Trail If you’re looking for one hike that shows you all of Ouray, this is it. The Perimeter Trail is a roughly 6-mile loop that encircles the town, offering stunning views of waterfalls, forests, rocky canyons, and the historic buildings of Ouray from above. The trail passes popular landmarks like Cascade Falls, the Ice Park, Box Canyon, and even the Ouray Hot Springs—so you can hit multiple highlights in one go. 🥾 Quick Tip: Start early to beat the heat and crowds, and bring plenty of water. Grab a bite to eat in Silverton You won’t go hungry in Ouray! Here are a few standout spots: The Smokehouse – The Smokehouse at Ouray Riverside Resort is a must-visit dining destination in Ouray, Colorado, offering a delightful blend of smoked meats, hearty breakfasts, and scenic mountain views. Located at 1700 Main Street within the Ouray Riverside Resort, this eatery is open to both resort guests and the general public. Photo Credit: Ouray Riverside Resort Maggie’s Kitchen – Maggie’s Kitchen is a beloved local eatery known for its hearty, handcrafted burgers and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a variety of options, including elk, buffalo, and veggie burgers, all served with your choice of fries, onion rings, or slaw. The restaurant offers a casual, kid-friendly environment with an outdoor porch that’s also dog-friendly. Guests are even encouraged to leave their signatures on the walls, adding to the unique charm of the place. Photo Credit: Ouray/Ridgeway Restaurant Guide Brickhouse 737 – Brickhouse 737 offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on farm-to-table cuisine and creative cocktails. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to craft dishes that are both innovative and comforting. The intimate setting, featuring exposed brick walls and captivating artwork, makes it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion. Photo Credit: Nomnomabroad Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee – Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee is a charming shop that has been delighting visitors since 2001 with its handmade chocolates, truffles, and house-roasted coffee. One of their signature treats is the “Scrap Cookie,” a delightful concoction made from bits of various