Quick FactsOverview
About Milford Sweat Hot Spring
Milford Sweat Hot Spring, also known as Wild Rose Natural Hot Spring, Idaho is a free roadside geothermal spring on US Highway 26 in Blaine County near the town of Carey, between Ketchum and Craters of the Moon National Monument. The spring is on private land owned by the Milford Sweat family, who permit public access. Two popular rock-walled soaking pools sit along Warm Springs Creek approximately 0.25 miles apart, fed by three separate spring sources. Carey, a small agricultural town on the edge of the Snake River Plain, is the nearest community.
The pools are near the highway but obscured by a low hill, providing a degree of privacy from passing traffic. Water flows from springs on both sides of Warm Springs Creek, creating pools with varying temperature depending on the mix of hot spring water and cold creek flow. The setting is open sagebrush country with views of the Pioneer Mountains to the north. This is one of the most accessible free hot springs Idaho offers along the route between Sun Valley and Craters of the Moon, making it a convenient stop for travelers on US-26.
The spring is listed as "Wild Rose Natural Hot Spring" on Google Maps.
Location & Access
Getting to Milford Sweat Hot Spring
Milford Sweat Hot Spring is located at a pullout on the north side of US Highway 26 between mile markers 214 and 215 in Blaine County, with only a 50-yard walk from the road to the spring. No hiking is required.
From Ketchum, drive south 26 miles on Idaho Highway 75, then east 19 miles on US-20 to Carey. Turn left onto US-26 and continue 9.7 miles to the pullout. The spring is near the road but not visible from it due to a low hill. Look for cars parked at the pullout. From Craters of the Moon National Monument, drive west on US-26 approximately 25 miles.
Regional Context
The spring is located along the route connecting the Sun Valley resort area with Craters of the Moon National Monument, making it a natural rest stop for travelers. For visitors seeking hot springs near Ketchum, the Warm Springs Creek corridor along the Ketchum to Hailey area has additional thermal features including Frenchman Bend Hot Springs (124 degrees, 11 miles from Ketchum) and Russian John Hot Spring (100 degrees, roadside). The Magic Reservoir area to the south also has thermal activity. Craters of the Moon National Monument, approximately 25 miles east on US-26, is a world-class volcanic landscape worth combining with a hot springs visit.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Milford Sweat Hot Spring
Milford Sweat Hot Spring suits travelers looking for a quick, free roadside soak on the route between Sun Valley and Craters of the Moon, as well as local residents seeking an accessible outdoor soaking experience. The two pools along Warm Springs Creek offer different temperatures depending on the hot spring and cold creek water mix. The 50-yard walk from the highway makes this one of the easiest hot springs to reach in central Idaho.
The spring is on private land, and visitors should respect the generosity of the Milford Sweat family in allowing public access. Leave no trash, be respectful of the property, and follow any posted guidelines. The open sagebrush setting offers little natural shade, so bring sun protection during summer visits.
Accessibility at Milford Sweat Hot Spring
The spring is not wheelchair accessible. The 50-yard walk crosses unimproved ground. No facilities exist at the spring. Those seeking free hot springs Idaho offers near Ketchum with more developed access should visit Russian John Hot Spring (100 degrees, roadside on Highway 75) or consider the commercial pools in Ketchum and Hailey, which offer maintained facilities and consistent water temperatures year-round. The Sun Valley area has the highest concentration of accessible hot springs in central Idaho.
Safety & Etiquette
Milford Sweat Hot Spring Safety Tips
Milford Sweat Hot Spring water temperatures vary by pool and season. Test the water in each pool before entering, as the balance of hot spring and cold creek water changes with flow conditions. The pools closest to the hot spring sources will be hotter than those mixed with more creek water.
The spring is on private land. Respect the property and the access the Milford Sweat family provides. Leave no trash, do not damage the pools, and do not camp at the spring. Any misbehavior risks the family restricting access, which would be a loss for the hot springs community.
Road and Environmental Awareness
The pullout is on a highway with traffic passing at speed. Use caution when entering and exiting the pullout. The open sagebrush terrain provides little shade. Summer temperatures in the high desert can be intense. Bring water and sun protection. Rattlesnakes are present in sagebrush country. Watch where you step, especially around rocks and vegetation near the creek.
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash. Do not use soap or shampoo in the pools. The creek ecosystem is sensitive. Respect all posted signs and any requests from the landowners. Help preserve this private-land hot spring for future visitors by treating it with care. The nearest medical facilities are in Carey or Hailey. Cell service is limited along this stretch of US-26. The high desert terrain around the spring can be extremely hot in summer. Bring water and sun protection for any visit, even a quick roadside soak.
