Quick FactsOverview
About Panther Hot Springs
Panther Hot Springs, also known as Big Creek Hot Springs, Idaho is a geothermal spring complex in the Salmon-Challis National Forest in Lemhi County, near the community of Shoup in central Idaho. Geothermal water flows over a travertine mound on a hillside into aptly named Hot Springs Creek, feeding three to four rock-walled soaking pools of varying temperature along the creek. A natural rock sauna sits at the top of the formation where steam rises from below. Salmon, the Lemhi County seat, is the nearest town with full services.
The travertine formation resembles a miniature Yellowstone, with hot water gushing from small caves in the hillside. The name changed from Big Creek Hot Springs in the 1920s when Panther Creek replaced Big Creek as the name of the waterway. The spring complex is at 4,400 feet elevation in a scenic mountain valley with diverse wildlife including deer, elk, and spotted frogs whose tadpoles thrive in the warm pools. This is one of the more visually striking natural hot springs in Idaho, combining geological interest with comfortable soaking.
The pools are primitive, with rock walls, gravel and rock bottoms, and a maximum depth of roughly three feet.
Location & Access
Getting to Panther Hot Springs
Panther Hot Springs is located along Panther Creek in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, accessed by road with no hiking required in good conditions. During winter, ice on the steep access road may require parking at the base of the hill and hiking up to the springs.
From Salmon, drive west on the Salmon River Road, then turn south onto the Panther Creek Road. The hot springs are located along Hot Springs Creek, a tributary of Panther Creek. The roads are unpaved and rough in places, with steep sections near the springs. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended. The drive from Salmon takes approximately one to two hours depending on road conditions.
Regional Context
The Panther Creek drainage is in a remote area of the Salmon-Challis National Forest between the Salmon River and the Frank Church Wilderness. For visitors seeking hot springs near Salmon, Goldbug Hot Springs (113 degrees, a popular 4-mile round-trip hike) is the best-known option. Owl Creek Hot Springs (roadside, north of Salmon) and the Middle Fork Salmon River hot springs (accessible by raft) are additional thermal features in the region. The Panther Creek campground nearby provides overnight camping.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Panther Hot Springs
Panther Hot Springs suits visitors seeking a geologically interesting and visually striking hot spring in a remote Idaho mountain setting. The travertine formation, the natural rock sauna, and the multiple pools of varying temperature make this one of the more unique soaking experiences in the state. The pools can be adjusted by moving rocks to control cold water intake from the creek.
The remote location means relatively low visitor traffic. Usage is rated low to moderate. Pool conditions change with the seasons, and the pools may require cleaning or rebuilding by visitors. The cold water stream that mixes with the hot spring can dry up in late summer, making the pools dangerously hot. Always check temperature before entering.
Accessibility at Panther Hot Springs
The springs are not wheelchair accessible. The terrain around the pools is uneven with slippery rocks. The access road is steep in places with a significant drop-off. During winter, the road may require parking at the bottom and hiking up. Those exploring natural hot springs Idaho offers near Salmon who want more reliable pool conditions and easier access should visit Goldbug Hot Springs (a well-maintained trail with consistent pools) or the commercial Challis Hot Springs, which offers reliable pool temperatures and developed changing facilities.
Safety & Etiquette
Panther Hot Springs Safety Tips
Panther Hot Springs has water temperatures that vary significantly by pool and season. Some pools can be extremely hot, especially in late summer when the cold water creek dries up. There have been reports of dogs and people getting severely burned. Always test the temperature of every pool before entering. Never put a child or pet in untested water.
The geothermal source water is dangerously hot where it emerges from the hillside caves. Do not touch the source area or the travertine formation near active vents. The rock sauna at the top of the formation is heated by natural steam. Use caution and limit time inside, as the temperature can be intense. Watch for spiders inside the sauna structure.
Road and Wildlife Awareness
The access road has steep sections with drop-offs. Drive carefully, especially when wet or icy. During winter, park at the base and hike up rather than risk the steep road. The area is home to deer, elk, black bears, and mountain lions. Store food properly and make noise on trails. The Panther Creek drainage is remote with limited cell service.
Leave No Trace at Panther Hot Springs
Pack out all trash. Do not alter the travertine formation. Previous visitor damage has already affected the site. Follow all Salmon-Challis National Forest regulations. The nearest medical facilities are in Salmon, one to two hours by road. Cell service is limited in the Panther Creek drainage. Carry a first aid kit and a satellite communication device for emergencies in this remote area of central Idaho.
