Quick FactsOverview
About Shower Bath Hot Springs
Shower Bath Hot Springs, Idaho is a backcountry geothermal spring system in the Salmon-Challis National Forest in Lemhi County near Challis, at the edge of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. Multiple hot springs at approximately 122 degrees Fahrenheit pour from canyon cliff faces, creating natural hot showers that cascade down rock walls. Pools can be dug out at the base of the falls where visitors have left shovels and picks for this purpose. Challis, the Custer County seat on Highway 93, is the nearest town with services.
The springs are accessed via the Mahoney Creek Trail from Sleeping Deer Road. The area has been described as a geothermal wonderland, with hot water blasting from canyon walls at multiple points along the creek. The springs of varying temperature cascade down the cliff faces, allowing visitors to find their preferred temperature by moving between shower points. This is one of the most unique and least visited natural hot springs in Idaho, combining a dramatic geological display with genuine backcountry solitude.
The springs are on USFS land with open access. No facilities exist at the springs or along the trail.
Location & Access
Getting to Shower Bath Hot Springs
Shower Bath Hot Springs is reached via the Mahoney Creek Trail from the trailhead on Sleeping Deer Road, an 11.4-mile out-and-back hike with approximately 2,591 feet of elevation gain. The trail is rated challenging. The hike is easy going in (mostly downhill) but demanding on the return, with the hardest climbing at the end when you are most tired.
From Challis, drive to the Sleeping Deer Road area on forest roads. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the rough forest road to the trailhead. The drive is long but does not require anything beyond good clearance and sound tires. The trail includes a 0.4-mile creek ford section. Water shoes are recommended for the crossings.
Planning and Access
The trail is best from July through October. Many visitors plan an overnight backpacking trip rather than attempting the full round trip in a single day. For visitors seeking hot springs near Challis, Shower Bath is the most dramatic but also the most demanding option. Challis Hot Springs (commercial facility in town) and Sunbeam Hot Springs (roadside on Highway 75) offer much easier access for those who prefer not to commit to a full-day or multi-day backcountry hike.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Shower Bath Hot Springs
Shower Bath Hot Springs suits experienced backcountry hikers seeking one of the most unique and least-visited hot spring experiences in Idaho. The natural hot showers pouring from cliff faces are unlike any other spring in the state. At 122 degrees Fahrenheit, the source water is hot, but the shower effect cools the water as it falls, and different shower points offer different temperatures.
The 11.4-mile round trip with 2,591 feet of gain is a serious effort. The trail is in good condition but the return climb is demanding. Overnight backpacking is recommended for a more relaxed experience. The remote location means very few other visitors. Dogs are welcome but must be on leash.
Accessibility at Shower Bath Hot Springs
The springs are not wheelchair accessible. The challenging backcountry trail is suitable only for fit, experienced hikers. No facilities exist at the springs. Those exploring natural hot springs Idaho offers near Challis who want easier access should visit Challis Hot Springs (in town, commercial) or Sunbeam Hot Springs (roadside on Highway 75 near Stanley), both offering comfortable soaking without any hiking commitment. The Mahoney Creek Trail approach, while demanding, rewards with one of the most dramatic geothermal displays in the entire state of Idaho.
Safety & Etiquette
Shower Bath Hot Springs Safety Tips
Shower Bath Hot Springs has source water at approximately 122 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause burns. The shower effect cools the water somewhat as it cascades down the cliff faces, but always test the temperature before standing under any flow. Pools dug at the base of the falls will vary in temperature depending on how close they are to the source.
The 0.4-mile creek ford section requires water shoes. The creek can be deeper and swifter in early summer during snowmelt. The trail has significant elevation gain, and the return climb is the hardest section. Carry plenty of water and food for the full day.
Wilderness and Wildlife Safety
Black bears, mountain lions, moose, and rattlesnakes are present in the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Make noise on the trail and store food properly if camping overnight. The area is remote with no cell service. Carry a satellite communication device for emergencies. The nearest medical facilities are in Challis.
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash. Do not alter the cliff faces or spring sources. Shovels and picks left at the springs are community tools. Treat them with care and leave them for the next visitor. Follow all Salmon-Challis National Forest regulations. The nearest medical facilities are in Challis. The forest road to the trailhead is rough and long. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition with a full tank of fuel. Carry a comprehensive first aid kit and adequate water and food for the entire hike.
