Jerry Johnson's Hot Springs

What is the location of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The location of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is in Clearwater National Forest near Lolo, Idaho. The hot springs are situated between Mile Markers 152 and 153 on Highway 12. The geographic coordinates of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs are 46°28′15.71″N latitude and 114°52′57.89″W longitude. The site lies approximately 25 miles west of Lolo Pass and 78 miles east of the Highway 12/13 junction at Kooskia, Idaho.

What is the access type of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The access type of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is hike-in only. Visitors must park at the Warm Springs Pack Bridge Trailhead, located on the north side of Highway 12 between Mile Markers 152 and 153. After crossing Highway 12 and the Lochsa River via the bridge, hikers follow the west main trail for approximately 1 mile to reach the waterfall-fed pools. An additional 0.5-mile hike leads to more pools.

What are the opening hours of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The opening hours of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs are from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., operating seasonally from March through November. The site remains closed outside of these hours and during the winter months.

What is the entry fee for Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The entry fee for Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is none. Access to the pools is free of charge, and no booking is required in advance.

What is the temperature range of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The temperature range of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs varies by pool and by geothermal source. Each pool receives water from different natural outlets, resulting in temperature fluctuations across the site.

What are the pool types at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The pool types at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs include natural rock-walled pools, waterfall-fed pools, and natural pools with sandy or silt bottoms. Pools are formed from geothermal discharge that collects in shallow basins along the trail and near the river.

What is the water composition of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The water composition of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is clear to semi-clear. The geothermal water exhibits low turbidity and contains a slight sulfur smell, indicating the presence of dissolved minerals.

What is the smell intensity of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The smell intensity of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is classified as slight sulfur. The odor is detectable but not overwhelming, consistent with low to moderate geothermal mineral content.

How many pools are at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The number of pools at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs includes three main geothermal sources that feed multiple individual pools. Each source supplies water to a cluster of pools spread along the trail and near the riverbank.

What is the clothing policy at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The clothing policy at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is clothing-optional. Visitors may choose whether or not to wear swimwear while soaking in the pools.

Is Jerry Johnson Hot Springs kid friendly?

Yes, Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is kid friendly. Families may visit the site, although supervision is recommended due to natural terrain and thermal water.

Is Jerry Johnson Hot Springs pet friendly?

Yes, Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is pet friendly with restrictions. Dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash at all times while on trails and near the pools.

What facilities are available at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

Facilities at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs include restrooms located at the Warm Springs Pack Bridge Trailhead parking lot. No restrooms or structures are available near the hot spring pools themselves.

What accommodation options are near Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

Accommodation near Jerry Johnson Hot Springs includes camping in Clearwater National Forest. Jerry Johnson Campground is located approximately 1 mile from the trailhead. Camping is not allowed at or near the hot spring pools.

Is parking available at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

Yes, parking is available at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. Vehicles may be parked at the designated Warm Springs Pack Bridge Trailhead lot, located on the north side of Highway 12.

What is the best season to visit Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

The best season to visit Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is late summer, particularly for accessing the waterfall-fed pools. The site is open from March through November, although visitors should check road conditions in fall and spring due to weather variability.

What are the nearby attractions to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?

Nearby attractions to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs include the Lochsa River and Warm Springs Creek, which flow near the trail and pools. Other points of interest include Jerry Johnson Hot Springs Big Pool, Lolo Hot Springs, Lolo Pass Interpretative Center, Lowell and Kooskia in Idaho, and Missoula in Montana. Wilderness areas such as the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and recreation areas like Wilderness Gateway Campground and the Clearwater River are also accessible. Additional geothermal sites nearby include Weir Creek Hot Springs and Stanley Hot Springs.

What is the distance of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs from the nearest major city?

The distance of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs from the nearest major city is 78 miles east of Kooskia, Idaho. The site is also located 25 miles west of Lolo Pass, which connects to Missoula, Montana.