Jerry Johnson Hot Springs are located a tad over a mile from the Lochsa River in Idaho. The hike starts with a crossing of the Lochsa River, followed by a gentle hike along Warm Springs Creek. On this day, I had the entire place to myself from parking lot to the pools themselves. The sign at the trailhead states that you may encounter the occasional nude dipper. Well, when in Rome (especially by yourself) – I shed my winter clothing and quickly plunged into the comfortably warm waters of the second of the 3 major pools.
I really appreciated the solitude of this last day of 2015. Soaking au naturale in the hot water as I am surrounded by cold winter air and the sound of the rushing creek caused my mind to focus on the experience. No reason of converse with others or manage a smile at their dog’s nose firmly planted in my crotch. Just solid alone time in the steam.
Getting to the Trailhead
From Powell (home of the Lochsa Lodge, a great spot for an after-soak adult beverage), take Highway 12 west for just over 10 miles to a large pullout marked Warm Springs Trailhead. Park and hike.
