Quick FactsOverview
About Dash Creek Hot Springs
Dash Creek Hot Springs, also known as Moondipper and Pine Burl Hot Springs, Idaho is a pair of primitive soaking pools along Dash Creek near the Middle Fork Payette River in the Boise National Forest in Valley County. Source water at 136 degrees Fahrenheit emerges from a cliff face and flows into two distinct pools approximately 80 yards apart, maintained at 106 to 110 degrees. A moderate 4.2-mile out-and-back hike from the Boiling Springs Campground trailhead is required. Crouch, a small community in the Middle Fork Payette drainage, is the nearest town.
Moondipper is the larger pool, with a sandy bottom and open canyon views, suitable for groups and longer soaks. Pine Burl is a smaller, beautifully constructed concrete and stone pool built along Dash Creek, fitting roughly two people. It features hot and cold water pipes with sleeve controls to adjust temperature precisely and a drain plug for cleaning. The spring is named after a large burl on a nearby pine tree visible from the pool. These are among the more refined free hot springs Idaho offers, with the Pine Burl pool rivaling any constructed primitive spring in the state.
The trail passes Lil Dipper Hot Springs on the way and continues to Butterfly and Ground Hog Hot Springs beyond, making this one of five soaking areas accessible from Boiling Springs.
Location & Access
Getting to Dash Creek Hot Springs
Dash Creek Hot Springs is reached by a moderate 4.2-mile out-and-back hike from the Boiling Springs Campground trailhead along the Middle Fork Payette River in the Boise National Forest. The trail gains approximately 344 feet of elevation through canyon terrain with some steep, narrow sections. The hike takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
From Crouch, take Middle Fork Road (Forest Road 698) north approximately 24 miles to the Boiling Springs Campground area. A cabin at the campground is rentable through Recreation.gov. From Cascade, take Highway 55 south, then Round Valley Road to Bacon Creek Road (FR 670) to Forest Road 698. The forest road is unpaved but accessible by standard vehicles in dry conditions.
Trail Notes
The trail follows the river through scenic canyon terrain with five hot spring areas accessible in sequence: Boiling Springs (adjacent to the campground), Lil Dipper, Moondipper, Pine Burl, and then Butterfly and Ground Hog further beyond. For visitors seeking hot springs near Crouch, this trail offers the best multi-spring hiking experience in the Boise National Forest. Leave the cold water pipe running at Pine Burl when you finish to help prevent algae buildup in the pool.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Dash Creek Hot Springs
Dash Creek Hot Springs suits hikers seeking scenic, well-maintained primitive pools on a moderate trail in the Boise National Forest. The two pools offer different experiences: Moondipper for group soaking with canyon views, and Pine Burl for a more private, precisely temperature-controlled soak in a beautifully crafted stone pool. The 4.2-mile hike is moderate and manageable for most reasonably fit visitors, including families with older children.
The trail is best from May through October. Dogs are welcome on leash. The spring is clothing optional. Visiting all five hot spring areas on the trail from Boiling Springs makes for an excellent full-day hot springs adventure. The Boiling Springs Campground provides a convenient overnight base.
Accessibility at Dash Creek Hot Springs
The springs are not wheelchair accessible. The trail has steep, narrow sections and some fallen trees. Those exploring free hot springs Idaho offers near Crouch who want easier access should visit the Hot Springs Campground pools (roadside on the Banks-Lowman Highway) or Kirkham Hot Springs (developed USFS site with multiple pools, easy walk from parking). The Middle Fork Payette corridor near Crouch and Garden Valley is one of the richest hot springs areas in the Boise National Forest, with options for every fitness level.
Safety & Etiquette
Dash Creek Hot Springs Safety Tips
Dash Creek Hot Springs has source water at 136 degrees Fahrenheit, which is dangerously hot. Do not touch the source or the cliff face where water emerges. The Moondipper pool runs 106 to 110 degrees, which is hot. Test before entering. If Moondipper feels too hot, bucket in cold creek water to cool it. Pine Burl has adjustable temperature via the pipe system.
The trail has steep, narrow sections with occasional fallen trees. Walking sticks are recommended. Use caution with young children on the narrower parts of the trail. The Boiling Springs geothermal area near the trailhead has water at 200+ degrees that is dangerously hot. Stay on the trail near the campground.
Wildlife and Environmental Awareness
Black bears are active in the Boise National Forest. Make noise on the trail and store food properly. The canyon can be hot and exposed in summer. Bring water and sun protection. Ticks are present in spring and early summer. Mosquitoes can be intense near water.
Leave No Trace at Dash Creek Hot Springs
Pack out all trash. Leave the cold water pipe running at Pine Burl to prevent algae. Do not damage the pool structures. Cell service is not available. Inform someone of your plans before departing. The nearest medical facilities are in Crouch or Garden Valley. The forest road to Boiling Springs Campground is long and remote. Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of fuel. In winter, the road is covered by snow and access requires a snowmobile. Carry a first aid kit and adequate water for the hike.
