Quick FactsOverview
What it is
Zims Hot Springs is a developed, outdoor mineral hot springs facility a few miles from New Meadows, Idaho. It is operated by the Nez Perce Tribe and built around two main pools: a larger swimming pool and a smaller hotter soaking pool. This is a managed soak, not a wild creek pool. You pay for entry, use maintained pool edges, and follow posted rules.
What feels distinct here
The two pool setup is the whole point. If your group is split between people who want to soak and people who want to move around, it works better than most single pool facilities. Zims also publishes practical details on its official site, including that it is open year round (with closed days) and that it offers rentals and on site basics like snacks and swim diapers. That makes it a reliable stop when you want hot water without complicated logistics.
What to expect
Expect a simple, family friendly place with a local feel. You will likely see RVs, kids, and day visitors, especially on weekends. Bring a swimsuit and towel, and plan for outdoor conditions. In cooler weather, the walk from pool to car is when you get chilled, so keep a warm layer handy and do not overstay your comfort just because the water feels good.
Location & Access
Where it is
Zims Hot Springs is at 2995 Zims Rd, New Meadows, ID 83654. It sits in Meadows Valley, a short drive off US 95 north of New Meadows. The drive is straightforward, and parking is on site close to the pools.
How to get there
From New Meadows, drive north on US 95 for about 4 miles, then turn west onto Circle C Lane (also signed as Zims Road) and follow posted signs to the facility. Most visitors arrive by passenger car without issue. If you are towing, allow extra time for turns and dust on the shoulder. In winter, drive for conditions and assume icy patches in shaded areas near the river.
Season and planning notes
The official site states the facility is open year round and lists weekly closure days, plus current hours. Hours can change seasonally, so check before you leave. If locker or changing areas are temporarily unavailable, plan to arrive ready to swim and soak. Bring water, a cover up, and sandals with grip for wet surfaces. If you plan to stay into evening, pack extra layers for the walk back to your car.
Suitability & Accessibility
Best for
Zims is best for families, casual soakers, and road trippers who want a simple, developed hot springs stop with two pool choices. The larger pool is better if you want space to float or move, while the smaller pool is better if you want a hotter, quieter soak. It is also a good match for RV travelers because camping and RV services are part of the property.
Families
Yes. The official site mentions swim diapers for purchase and positions the place as a swimming and soaking destination. As with any hot water, keep kids supervised and keep soak sessions shorter, especially in the hotter pool. Have a warm change of clothes ready for the drive home, since kids often get cold fast once they leave the water.
Wheelchair and mobility access
Several travel listings describe handicap access at Zims, but do not treat that as a guarantee of ramp entry into every pool. In practice, access often means easier parking and flatter paths compared with a natural hot spring. If step free entry into the water is essential, call ahead and ask how each pool is entered, what surfaces are like from parking to pool edge, and whether any assistance features are available on your visit day.
Expectations vs reality
This is an outdoor pool facility, not a quiet spa. If you arrive expecting laughter, family energy, and a straightforward soak, it works. If you want silence, visit weekday afternoons when the place is typically calmer.
Safety & Etiquette
Key risks
The main risks here are overheating, dehydration, and slipping on wet decking. Start with shorter soaks, drink water, and take breaks out of the pool, especially if you are new to hotter mineral water. Move slowly on wet surfaces and keep sandals on until you are ready to enter. If you feel light headed, get out, sit down, and cool off before deciding whether to return.
On site norms
Swimsuits are required. Keep splashing and loud play in the larger pool so the soaking pool stays calmer for people who are resting. Avoid glass near the water. Follow posted rules on food, drinks, and pool behavior. If you are wearing sunscreen or lotion, let it absorb before you enter and avoid reapplying right before soaking.
Being a considerate guest
Share space, especially in the smaller pool. Keep soak times fair when others are waiting. Keep personal music private if it is allowed at all. Pack out small trash that can blow into the river corridor, and do a quick check around your bench spot before you leave. A little care keeps the place pleasant for the next group.
Weather basics
Because everything is outdoors, wind and cold air matter. In shoulder seasons, bring a robe or oversized towel and a warm layer so you do not end your visit shivering. If lightning is in the area, leave the water and follow staff guidance.
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