Stanley Hot Springs: Stanley Hot Springs is a very popular destination for backpacking to hot springs in the Inland Northwest.  The trailhead is easy to find and the trail is clearly marked and easy to follow.  The trial provides awesome view of the scenic bitterroot mountain. Plenty of stock use the trail as an entry route into the Fish Lake area, so be prepared to step aside for horses or donkeys when necessary. Highlights: Pleasant canyon scenery and a series of steaming hot springs.

Driving Distance: 3hr 47min (200mi)

Directions

From Kamiah, take U.S. Highway 12 about 28 miles east to Lowell and continue 26 miles to Wilderness Gateway Campground mile marker 122. Go past Loops A and B, and the amphitheater, to the trail 211 parking area.

Trail Distance:  14 miles total (there and back)

Elevation Gain: 1,760 ft

Difficulty (1-5): 3

Permit(s) Required: None

Description:  Stanley Hot Springs is a very popular destination for backpacking to hot springs in the Inland Northwest.  The trailhead is easy to find and the trail is clearly marked and easy to follow.  The trial provides awesome view of the scenic Bitterroot Mountains. Plenty of stock use the trail as an entry route into the Fish Lake area, so be prepared to step aside for horses or donkeys when necessary. Highlights: Pleasant canyon scenery and a series of steaming hot springs.

Guide Review: Backpacking to Stanley Hot Springs is definitely a highlight out of all my outdoors experiences. We ventured into the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness on a weekend in October; a perfect time of the year for amazing fall foliage! Though the trail can be challenging with a pack burdening your back, the fiery golden leaves distract your gaze compelling your feet to keep moving. In order to get to the all natural, 110 degree hot springs that are like manna from heaven on a rainy October day, make sure you cross a creek in the last mile of the hike! This somewhat treacherous endeavor definitely gets the adrenaline pumping, be sure to find a walking stick and use your buddies to get across. The hot springs feel like a godsend after a long day of hiking, even to just bathe your feet in. You might want to consider taking a dip at night too for some optimal stargazing! I sincerely recommend this as a two-three night trip in the fall. Enjoy!

Gear List:

  • Waterbottle
  • Small First Aid Kit
  • Rain Jacket (October-May)
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Fleece Pants
  • Tent
  • Stove
  • Plenty of food
  • Bear can
  • Toliet Paper and Trowel
  • Good Hiking Shoes
  • Camera

Check out the forecast here!

 

*Gonzaga Outdoors recommended trips are intended to give you ideas about some awesome places you should check out in Spokane.  However, these reviews may not be 100% accurate or 100% current.  We recommend that you do your own additional research about the area and current conditions  before you go on your trip. You go the trip at your own risk. Have fun out there!*