Warm Springs Loop Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
2.5-3.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.0 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.
413 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead
Warm Springs Loop Hike

Remarkable mountain views await you on the Warm Springs Loop Hike in the Sawtooth National Forest. What is a popular mountain biking route has become popular amongst the hiking community, and we cannot wait for you to explore this scenic route!

Guide-book quality info for over 8,000 trails

View Warm Springs Loop Hike on Map

View Map

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Warm Springs Loop Hike

The Warm Springs Loop Hike in Sawtooth National Forest boasts a relentless climb up the slopes of Bald Mountain, but the wonderful scenery is well worth the sweat. Explore several runs that are populated with skiers and snowboarders in the winter months but are barren and decorated with wildlife in the summer months. Note that much of this route is exposed, so it is wise to wear sun protection and bring along plenty of water. As shared with mountain bikers, it is important to be mindful of passers-by as you climb. Lastly, while the area is well maintained, the abundance of intersecting routes can make navigation complicated, so we encourage the use of trail GPS. Note this area is subject to wildlife closure to protect calving elk in the summer months.

Embark on your adventure along the Warm Spring Loop Trail from the trailhead off Puchner Lane. Setting out from here, you can choose to hike in either direction, but we trekked counterclockwise, using the countless switchbacks to our advantage. Keeping left, the Warm Springs Trail will guide you into the wilderness and through the winding terrain that zigzags beneath the trailhead. After navigating the tireless climb up the switchbacks, you will confront an intersection with Maiden Lane.

Turn left onto Maiden Lane before quickly diverging off the marked route. Using the trail GPS, you will begin your descent down a service road that is more precipitous, so take your time and mind your knees. Eventually, you will reconnect with the Warm Springs Trail at the base of the mountain, turn right and retrace your steps back to your vehicle.

Getting to the Warm Springs Loop Hike Trailhead

The Warm Springs Loop Hike is accessed from Puchner Lane.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    April-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Warm Springs Loop Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Warm Springs Loop Hike Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Tours

Routes

Blogs