Skillern Hot Springs Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-3h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.7 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
173 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

A relaxing spa-like experience awaits you on the Skillern Hot Springs Hike. This pleasant trail explores the banks of Big Smokey Creek, wandering through communities of sagebrush, flowering meadows, and lush forests. This is one of our favorite adventures in the Sawtooth National Forest, and it will likely be one of yours too.

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Route Description for Skillern Hot Springs Hike

The Skillern Hot Springs Trail is a beautiful adventure that the whole family can enjoy. This pleasant day hike explores a variety of terrains, exhibiting the diversity of Idaho’s flora and fauna. Wander through sagebrush steppe, blossoming meadows, and stands of pine trees above the meandering waterway. While the exposed terrain offers incredible scenery, it also warrants extreme conditions, so it is wise to wear SPF and sun protection to avoid overexposure. Additionally, we encourage trekkers to bring plenty of water or a water filter to stay hydrated. Note snakes have been spotted in the area, so mind your footing.

Embark on your adventure from the trailhead off Big Smokey Road. Setting out from here, the path wanders northeastward along the Big Smokey Creek Trail, amongst the steep Smoky Mountains. This scenic path contours the canyon walls, gradually climbing and gently undulating along the way. Enjoy the view of the creek below and the lush forests that line the waterway. After some hiking, the route will descend to the creek floor, where you will find the Skillern Hot Springs.

Find the collection of pools overlooking the creek. If time permits, take a soak in the warm pools and revel in the scenes of the encompassing unspoiled wilderness. When you are through luxuriating in the waters, head back along the path the way you came.

Getting to the Skillern Hot Springs Hike Trailhead

The Skillern Hot Springs Hike is accessed from the trailhead off Big Smokey Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Dispersed Camping

  • When to do

    April-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Skillern Hot Springs Hike Elevation Graph

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Skillern Hot Springs Hike Reviews

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