Goldbug Hot Springs in Salmon, Idaho in the Winter
Updated: Jan 30, 2022
A mini guide to be fully prepared to make the trek to Goldbug Hot springs in Salmon Idaho in the snow and ice.
We went to Goldbug Hot Springs on January 29th, 2022, and winter was still in FULL swing! It was beautiful, but there are a few things that are essential to know, and to bring, in order to make it to the hot springs in the winter. I'll outline everything you need to know!
Details and overview:
Location: Just outside Salmon or Challis Idaho.
Hike: The hike is 4 miles round trip, with 1,500 feet of elevation gain. The very beginning and very end of the hike are the steepest portions, with the middle being level to a slight incline.
Warnings: The hike is VERY icy and snowy in the winter, making it slick. With some portions being so steep and covered in Ice, it can be a bit difficult. I would 100% recommend investing in some snow spikes for your boots. Some portions are almost impossible without them. I'll link the spikes we used at the end of the guide.
My second warning would be that the hot springs trailhead is in the middle of nowhere. Challis will be your absolute last town to stop in, and there is hardly anything there at all. I would recommend fueling up and eating in Mackay, Idaho, which is about an hour before Challis. Bring snacks with you as well for the trail, because you won't be eating for awhile after you finish the hike.
What to wear:
If you are visiting the springs in the winter, you absolutely need to dress for the occasion. Wear warm layers that are easy to take off and put back on again. You'll get hotter while you hike, but be cold on the way back down after being wet from your dip in the hot pools. I recommend having your swim suit under your clothes as you hike, as there won't be anywhere to change at the top of the hike and it can get crowded. To find somewhere private to change you'll have to trek a long ways off the trail, so just hike in your swimsuit under your clothing. Make sure to wear good quality insulated snow boots that aren't too heavy for hiking, along with the mentioned snow spikes. I recommend wearing a long pair of base layer socks, with wool socks over top to keep your feet warm and dry. Be sure to wear gloves and some sort of beanie to keep you warm as well. I wore fleece lined leggings and felt that they kept me perfectly warm. Last, I recommend a neck/face gator. There was a lot of wind blowing snow around, so this was nice to keep the chill out.
Essential gear to bring:
I am a list kind of gal, so that is how I will list out what you need so you can check it off as you prepare:
A medium-large backpack to carry your gear in and store your clothes in while in the hot pools
A water bottle
Good hiking shoes that are waterproof, or snow boots
Two towels per person. You'll want to be TOTALLY dry when putting your clothes back on and hiking down. It also gets muddy near the pools, so having one towel to stand on and wipe your feet on and another to dry yourself is important for getting dressed again
Snow Spikes
Granola Bars/snacks
Gloves
A neck/face gator
Swim Suit under your clothes
We ran into some friends at the top who had brought a JetBoil with them to make hot chocolate with at the top. Not an essential, but definitely a plus! If you bring these don't forget the cups and pack everything back out!
A phone or camera to capture the views
Links to everything you will need:
My husband and I have each of the following below. One thing you will never regret investing in, is good gear that will take you the distance.
A blackstrap neck and face gator:
Ice Cleats/Snow spikes for your boots:
Mens Snow Hiking Boots:
Womens Snow Boots:
Womens Hiking Boots:
A good backpack:
Fleece Lined Leggings with a pocket:
Mini Jet Boil:
A Carhartt Beanie:
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