Boat Box Hot Springs
Boat Box Hot Spring is located near Stanley, Idaho, and features 110 °F soaking water sourced at 136 °F. Set in a single metal tub beside the Salmon River, its mineral-rich waters contain sodium, bicarbonate, and silicon dioxide, offering a unique roadside experience.

Boat Box Hot Springs Basic Information
Boat Box Hot Springs Pool Information
Boat Box Hot Springs Amenities & Facilities
Boat Box Hot Springs Additional Information
Boat Box Hot Springs Mineral Content
What to know about Boat Box Hot Springs
What is the location of Boat Box Hot Spring?
The location of Boat Box Hot Spring is in Stanley, Idaho, situated between mileposts 192 and 193 on Idaho State Highway 75. The hot spring lies approximately 3.3 miles north of Stanley, directly alongside the Salmon River. The geographic coordinates of Boat Box Hot Spring are 44.2448647° latitude and -114.886138° longitude, which correspond to 44°14′41.5″ N and 114°53′10.1″ W in degrees, minutes, and seconds. The spring is accessible from a gravel turnout on the left side of the highway when heading north from Stanley.
What is the access type of Boat Box Hot Spring?
The access type of Boat Box Hot Spring is public and roadside. Visitors reach the spring directly from Idaho State Highway 75 by using a small gravel pullout adjacent to the Salmon River. The spring does not require any booking or reservation and is open to the public year-round. The site is not officially ADA accessible, and access may be impeded during heavy snowfall conditions.
What are the opening hours and entry cost of Boat Box Hot Spring?
The opening hours of Boat Box Hot Spring are year-round without seasonal closures. The entry cost for Boat Box Hot Spring is free, and no fees are charged for access or use of the soaking pool. Visitors are not required to make any bookings in advance.
What are the temperature characteristics of Boat Box Hot Spring?
The temperature characteristics of Boat Box Hot Spring include a soaking pool temperature of 110 °F (43 °C) and a source temperature of 136 °F (58 °C). The spring delivers geothermal water directly into a single metal tub, with the high source temperature cooled slightly before entering the soaking area.
What are the pool features of Boat Box Hot Spring?
The pool features of Boat Box Hot Spring include one singular metal tub placed beside the river. The tub is fairly deep when seated and covers most of the body, providing full immersion for bathers. The hot spring contains only one pool and does not include any additional basins or natural formations.
What is the water composition of Boat Box Hot Spring?
The water composition of Boat Box Hot Spring contains elevated concentrations of silicon dioxide, sodium, and bicarbonate. Specifically, the thermal water holds 72.6 mg/L of silicon dioxide, 70.4 mg/L of sodium, and 64.7 mg/L of bicarbonate. The pH level of the water ranges between 8.2 and 9.4, indicating a slightly alkaline profile.
What is the clothing policy at Boat Box Hot Spring?
The clothing policy at Boat Box Hot Spring requires the use of swimsuits. Nudity is not encouraged due to the spring’s close proximity to Highway 75, and skinny dipping is not common. Swimsuits are expected for all visitors during use.
What are the directions to Boat Box Hot Spring?
The directions to Boat Box Hot Spring begin at the ‘T’ intersection in Stanley. Travelers head north on Highway 75 for 3.3 miles and use the gravel turnout on the left, located along the Salmon River. From the parking area, visitors take a short walk over sand and gravel to reach the metal tub.
What facilities and services are available at Boat Box Hot Spring?
The facilities and services available at Boat Box Hot Spring are minimal. There are no built structures, restrooms, or changing areas on site. The spring is undeveloped and relies on natural surroundings for its setting. Parking is available at a small gravel turnout beside the highway, but it is not a formal lot.
What are the nearby accommodations to Boat Box Hot Spring?
The nearby accommodations to Boat Box Hot Spring include Triangle C Cabins, Mountain Village Lodge, and Redfish Lake Lodge. Campgrounds near the hot spring include Salmon River Campground, Riverside Campground, and Mormon Bend Campground. These lodging options are located within a short driving distance from the spring.
What is the best season to visit Boat Box Hot Spring?
The best season to visit Boat Box Hot Spring is year-round, with early morning hours on weekdays recommended for reduced crowding. Although the spring remains open during winter, road conditions may vary due to snow, which can affect accessibility.
What are the nearby attractions to Boat Box Hot Spring?
The nearby attractions to Boat Box Hot Spring include the Salmon River, Sawtooth National Forest, and Redfish Lake. Additional points of interest include the Mountain Village Resort hot springs, local flora and fauna, and Salmon River rafting activities. These attractions enhance the recreational appeal of the area surrounding the hot spring.
What is the distance of Boat Box Hot Spring from major cities?
The distance of Boat Box Hot Spring from major cities includes a 3.3-mile drive from Stanley, Idaho. Stanley itself is located approximately 135 miles from Boise, Idaho, making the spring accessible for day trips or weekend visits.
Where can more information about Boat Box Hot Spring be found?
No More information about Boat Box Hot Spring can be found.
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