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Exploring the Unique Boat Box Hot Springs in Stanley, Idaho

If you are looking for a relaxing and scenic getaway in Idaho, you might want to check out the Boat Box Hot Springs in Stanley. This is one of the smallest and most unique hot springs in the state, and it offers a great opportunity to soak in a natural tub surrounded by the beauty of the Sawtooth Mountains and the Salmon River.

In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about visiting Boat Box Hot Springs, including its history, location, best time to visit, etiquette, accommodation, and other activities to enjoy in the area.

Introduction to Boat Box Hot Spring

 Boat Box Hot Spring can be found on the Salmon River in the Sawtooth National Forest, located on Idaho State Highway 75, approximately 3 miles from Stanley. This hot spring consists of a solitary metal tub that is supplied with water through a plastic tube integrated into the riverbank.

The hot spring got its name from the previous wooden tub that was used until it got destroyed by the annual spring floods. Generally, the temperature at Boat Box Hot Spring hovers around 110°F (43.33°C). The water is typically not transparent due to the presence of algae. 

What Makes Boat Box Hot Spring Unique?

Boat Box Hot Spring is unique for several reasons. First of all, it is one of the smallest hot springs in Idaho, with a capacity of only three to four people. This makes it a cozy and intimate spot for couples or small groups of friends. Second, it is one of the few hot springs that allows you to control the water temperature by adding cold river water or letting the air cool it down.

There is a valve at the base of the pool that you can open to drain the water if you need to adjust it. Third, it is one of the most scenic hot springs in Idaho, with stunning views of the Sawtooth Mountains and the Salmon River. You can enjoy the sunrise or sunset from the tub, or watch the stars at night.

The Fascinating History of Boat Box Hot Spring

Boat Box Hot Spring has a fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. It was originally discovered by fur trappers of the Hudson’s Bay Company in the 1820s, but they avoided it due to the scarcity of beaver in the area.

Later, in 1863 or 1864, Captain John Stanley, a Confederate Civil War veteran, led a party of 23 prospectors through the area, but they found little gold and moved on to discover the Atlanta lode on the south end of the Sawtooths. The site was not considered a town until 1919 when its streets and lots were surveyed and recorded.

The hot spring was first used by rafters who built a wooden box to collect the hot water from a nearby spring. They would stop by the tub after a long day on the river and enjoy a relaxing soak. The wooden box was frequently dislodged by spring floods and eventually destroyed, but it was replaced by a very serviceable tub made from an ocean buoy that was nicely sliced and welded together.

The tub was secured by metal cables to prevent it from being washed away by the river. The hot spring became a local favorite and was maintained by the community who were happy for anyone to use it free of charge.

How to Get to Boat Box Hot Springs

Driving Directions to Reach Boat Box from Central Idaho

To get to Boat Box Hot Springs from central Idaho, you will need to drive along Highway 75, which is also known as Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway and Sawtooth Scenic Byway. This is a beautiful drive that offers spectacular views of valleys, forests, rivers, and mountains along the way. You will pass through towns such as Ketchum, Sun Valley, Hailey, Bellevue, and Challis. Here is the google maps location.

From Ketchum, head north on Highway 75 for about 60 miles until you reach Stanley. From Stanley, continue north on Highway 75 for another 3.8 miles until you see a gravel turnout on your right-hand side. This is where you will park your car and walk down to the hot spring.

Specific Landmarks While Visiting Boat Box Hot Springs

Some landmarks that will help you find Boat Box Hot Springs are:

• The Sawtooth National Recreation Area sign: This sign marks the entrance to the recreation area where Boat Box Hot Springs is located. It is about 2 miles north of Stanley on Highway 75.
• The Salmon River bridge: This bridge crosses over the Salmon River about 1 mile north of Stanley on Highway 75. You will see a sign that says “Salmon River Scenic Byway” on your right.
• The steam: The most obvious landmark that indicates you are near Boat Box Hot Springs is the steam that rises from the tub by the side of the road. You will see it on your right as you drive north on Highway 75.
• The gravel turnout: This is where you will park your car and walk down to the hot spring. It is a large dirt area on the right-hand side of the road, about 3.8 miles north of Stanley on Highway 75. There is no sign for the hot spring, so look for the steam and the tub.

Best Time to Visit Boat Box Hot Springs

The Seasonal Differences at Boat Box Hot Springs

Boat Box Hot Springs is open year-round, but the experience can vary depending on the season. Here are some of the differences you can expect:

• Spring: Spring is a beautiful time to visit Boat Box Hot Springs, as you can see the wildflowers blooming and the snow melting in the mountains. However, spring is also the time when the river is at its highest and most powerful, which can make the hot spring less accessible and more dangerous. The water level may cover the tub or make it too hot to soak in. The road may also be muddy or snowy, so be prepared for changing conditions.
• Summer: Summer is the most popular time to visit Boat Box Hot Springs, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the water temperature is perfect. However, summer is also the peak season for tourists and rafters, which means that the hot spring can get crowded and noisy. You may have to wait for your turn to use the tub or share it with strangers. The best time to avoid the crowds is early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Fall: Fall is a great time to visit Boat Box Hot Springs, as you can enjoy the changing colors of the leaves and the crisp air. The water temperature is still comfortable, and the crowds are less than in summer. However, fall is also the hunting season in Idaho, which means that you may encounter hunters and their dogs in the area. Be aware of your surroundings and wear bright colors to be visible.
• Winter: Winter is a magical time to visit Boat Box Hot Springs, as you can see the snow-covered mountains and trees, and feel the contrast between the hot water and the cold air. The water temperature is usually warmer than in other seasons, and the crowds are minimal. However, winter is also the most challenging time to visit Boat Box Hot Springs, as the road conditions can be hazardous and unpredictable. You may need a four-wheel drive vehicle or snow chains to reach the hot spring. The tub may also be frozen or buried under snow, so you may need to dig it out or break the ice.

Visiting Hot Springs in Idaho: What to Expect

Etiquette When Visiting Boat Box Hot Springs

When visiting Boat Box Hot Springs, or any other hot springs in Idaho, there are some etiquette rules that you should follow to respect the environment and other visitors. Here are some of them:

• Leave no trace: This means that you should leave the hot spring as you found it or better. Do not litter, graffiti, or damage anything in the area. Pack out what you pack in, and dispose of your trash properly.
• Be courteous: This means that you should be polite and friendly to other visitors and locals. Do not hog the tub or stay longer than necessary. Share the space and take turns if needed. Keep your noise level low and do not play loud music or disturb wildlife.
• Be safe: This means that you should be careful and responsible when using the hot spring. Do not soak if you are pregnant, have a medical condition, or are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Check the water temperature before entering and adjust it if needed. Do not soak for more than 15 minutes at a time and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Be modest: This means that you should be respectful of other people’s privacy and comfort level. Do not skinny dip or expose yourself in public. Wear a swimsuit or cover yourself with a towel if possible.

Do’s and Don’ts for the Hot Springs Experience

To make your visit to Boat Box Hot Springs more enjoyable and memorable, here are some do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind:

Do:

• Bring a towel, water bottle, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, flip flops, and a change of clothes.
• Bring a flashlight or headlamp if you plan to visit at night.
• Bring a camera or phone to capture the amazing views.
• Bring a friend or partner for company and safety.
• Bring some snacks or drinks to enjoy after your soak.

Don’t:

• Bring glass containers, soap, shampoo, or other chemicals that can contaminate the water.
• Bring pets, as they are not allowed in most hot springs in Idaho.
• Bring valuables or leave them unattended in your car.
• Touch or disturb any plants or animals in the area.
• Trespass on private property or enter closed areas.

Keeping Hot Springs Clean and Well Preserved

One of the reasons why Boat Box Hot Springs is so unique and special is because it is maintained by the community who love and care for it. However, this also means that it depends on visitors like you to keep it clean and well preserved. Here are some ways that you can help to protect and conserve this precious resource:

• Drain the water after each use: One of the unique features of Boat Box Hot Springs is that you can drain the water from the tub by opening the valve at the base of the pool. This helps to prevent algae growth, bacteria buildup, and mineral deposits that can clog the pipe and damage the tub. It also allows fresh water to fill the tub for the next user. To drain the water, simply turn the valve counterclockwise until it is fully open. You will hear a hissing sound as the water escapes. Wait until the tub is empty, then close the valve by turning it clockwise until it is tight. Do not leave the valve open, as this can cause erosion and flooding.
• Use the white PVC pipe to fill the tub: The white PVC pipe that sticks out from the riverbank is the source of hot water for Boat Box Hot Springs. It is connected to a natural spring that flows underground. To fill the tub with hot water, simply place the end of the pipe over the edge of the tub and let the water flow in. You can use rocks to keep the pipe in place if needed. Do not use any other pipe or hose to fill the tub, as this can introduce contaminants or cold water into the system.
• Check the water temperature before entering: The water temperature of Boat Box Hot Springs can vary depending on the season, the river level, and the amount of cold water added. It can range from 90°F (32.22°C) to 120°F (48.89°C) or more. To avoid burns or discomfort, always check the water temperature before entering the tub. You can use your hand, a thermometer, or a plastic bucket to test the water. If the water is too hot, you can add some cold river water by using a bucket or a hose that is attached to a nearby faucet. If the water is too cold, you can wait for it to heat up or add more hot water from the pipe.
• Enjoy your soak and leave no trace: Once you have adjusted the water temperature to your liking, you can enjoy your soak in Boat Box Hot Springs. Relax and admire the views, but be mindful of your time and other visitors who may want to use the tub. When you are done, drain the water from the tub, remove any trash or personal items, and leave no trace of your visit. Thank you for respecting and caring for this unique hot spring.

Accommodation near Boat Box Hot Springs

Nearby Options: Redfish Lake Lodge and Other Hotels

If you are looking for a place to stay near Boat Box Hot Springs, you have several options to choose from. One of them is Redfish Lake Lodge, which is a historic resort located on the shores of Redfish Lake, about 6 miles south of Stanley on Highway 75. The lodge offers cozy cabins, rooms, suites, and camping facilities with amenities such as a restaurant, bar, marina, store, laundry, and Wi-Fi. You can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, boating, horseback riding, and more at Redfish Lake Lodge.

Another option is to stay at one of the hotels or motels in Stanley or nearby towns. Some of them are:

• Mountain Village Resort: This is a rustic resort located in Stanley that offers rooms, cabins, RV sites, and tent camping with amenities such as a restaurant, bar, hot springs pool, sauna, spa, and Wi-Fi.
• Sawtooth Hotel: This is a historic hotel located in Stanley that offers rooms and suites with amenities such as a restaurant, bar, fireplace lounge, and Wi-Fi.
• Triangle C Cabins: These are log cabins located in Stanley that offer rooms with amenities such as a kitchenette, fireplace, porch, and Wi-Fi.
• Challis Hot Springs: These are hot springs located in Challis that offer rooms, cabins, RV sites, and tent camping with amenities such as a hot springs pool, sauna, Wi-Fi, and laundry.

Camping Near Stanley, Idaho

If you prefer to camp near Boat Box Hot Springs, you have several options to choose from. Some of them are:

• Salmon River Campground: This is a campground located on the banks of the Salmon River, about 2 miles north of Stanley on Highway 75. It offers 10 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. It is open from May to October and costs $15 per night.
• Riverside Campground: This is a campground located on the banks of the Salmon River, about 4 miles north of Stanley on Highway 75. It offers 8 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. It is open from May to October and costs $15 per night.
• Elk Creek Campground: This is a campground located on the banks of Elk Creek, about 5 miles north of Stanley on Highway 75. It offers 9 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. It is open from May to October and costs $15 per night.
• Stanley Lake Campground: This is a campground located on the shores of Stanley Lake, about 7 miles west of Stanley on Highway 21. It offers 19 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. It is open from May to October and costs $16 per night.

Other Activities to Enjoy around Boat Box Hot Springs

Sightseeing around Stanley and Sawtooth National

Besides soaking in Boat Box Hot Springs, there are many other activities that you can enjoy around Stanley and Sawtooth National Forest. Here are some of them:

• Sightseeing: You can admire the stunning scenery of the Sawtooth Mountains and the Salmon River from various viewpoints along Highway 75 or Highway 21. You can also visit some historical sites such as the Stanley Museum, the Custer Ghost Town, the Yankee Fork Gold Dredge, and the Sunbeam Dam.
• Hiking: You can explore the many trails that lead to lakes, waterfalls, peaks, and meadows in the Sawtooth Wilderness or the White Cloud Mountains. Some of the popular hikes are Redfish Lake Trail, Sawtooth Lake Trail, Alice Lake Trail, Fourth of July Lake Trail, and Boulder Chain Lakes Trail.
• Biking: You can ride your bike on the paved or dirt roads that wind through the valleys and hills in the area. You can also try some mountain biking trails such as Fisher Creek Trail, Boundary Creek Trail, or Williams Creek Trail.
• Fishing: You can cast your line in the Salmon River or one of the many lakes and streams in the area. You can catch trout, salmon, steelhead, or bass depending on the season and location. You may need a fishing license and a catch-and-release permit to fish in some areas.
• Boating: You can rent a boat or kayak at Redfish Lake Marina or Stanley Lake Marina and enjoy the water activities such as paddling, sailing, or water skiing. You can also join a rafting or kayaking trip on the Salmon River with one of the local outfitters.

Alternative Hot Springs in Idaho

If you want to experience more hot springs in Idaho, you have plenty of options to choose from. Idaho has over 130 hot springs that range from natural pools to developed resorts. Here are some of them:

• Kirkham Hot Springs: These are hot springs located along the South Fork Payette River on Highway 21, about 30 miles south of Stanley. They offer several pools with varying temperatures and sizes that are surrounded by rocks and trees. They are open year-round and free to use.
• Sunbeam Hot Springs: These are hot springs located along the Salmon River on Highway 75, about 12 miles south of Stanley. They offer three pools with different temperatures that are fed by a pipe from a nearby spring. They are open year-round and free to use.
• Goldbug Hot Springs: These are hot springs located in a canyon near Challis on Highway 93, about 60 miles north of Stanley. They offer several pools with amazing views of the mountains and valley that are accessed by a moderate hike of about 2 miles. They are open year-round and free to use.
• Pine Flats Hot Springs: These are hot springs located along the South Fork Payette River on Highway 17, about 40 miles west of Stanley. They offer two pools with different temperatures that are built into the riverbank. They are open year-round and free to use.
• Challis Hot Springs: These are hot springs located near Challis on Highway 93, about 50 miles north of Stanley. They offer two pools with controlled temperatures that are part of a resort that also offers rooms, cabins, RV sites, and tent camping with amenities such as a hot springs pool, sauna, Wi-Fi, and laundry. They are open year-round and charge a fee to use.

FAQs and Other Important Information about Boat Box Hot Springs

Things to Know About Boat Box Hot Springs

Before you visit Boat Box Hot Springs, here are some things that you should know:

• The hot spring is free and open to the public, but it is not officially maintained or regulated by any authority. Use it at your own risk and discretion.
• The hot spring is located on public land, but it is adjacent to private property. Do not trespass or disturb the neighbors.
• The hot spring is accessible by car, but the road conditions can vary depending on the season and weather. Drive carefully and be prepared for snow, ice, mud, or rocks.
• The hot spring is popular among locals and tourists, especially in summer. Expect to see other people and respect their privacy and space.
• The hot spring is not suitable for children, elderly, or people with health issues. The water temperature can be too hot or too cold, and the tub can be slippery or unstable.
• The hot spring is not sanitary or filtered. The water may contain bacteria, algae, minerals, or other contaminants. Do not drink the water or put your head under it. Rinse off after your soak and wash your clothes.

What to Pack for a Visit to Boat Box Hot Springs

To make your visit to Boat Box Hot Springs more comfortable and enjoyable, here are some things that you should pack:

• A swimsuit or towel to cover yourself in the tub
• A water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized
• A sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and lip balm to protect yourself from the sun
• A flashlight or headlamp if you plan to visit at night
• A camera or phone to capture the views
• A change of clothes and shoes to wear after your soak
• A trash bag to pack out your garbage