Sharkey Hot Springs is one of eastern Idaho's most welcoming and well-kept soaks — a pair of clear, hot mineral pools set high in the Lemhi Valley near Salmon, with sweeping views across the sagebrush country to the surrounding mountains. Lovingly maintained by the Bureau of Land Management, it's the rare backcountry hot spring that comes with real comforts, making it a favorite year-round stop for travelers and locals alike.

The site features two large concrete soaking pools fed by the natural springs and kept at comfortable soaking temperatures, plus a genuinely nice set of amenities: heated changing rooms, vault restrooms, a fire pit with seating, an interpretive kiosk, and a parking area. It's clean, family-friendly, and easy to enjoy — just bring your suit and settle in.

The springs have a long history. Named for B.F. Sharkey, an early settler of Lemhi County, they were first developed around 1890 and drew visitors from across the Lemhi Valley and Salmon River country who came to soak in the warm, mineral-rich water. That tradition continues today, with the modern pools carrying on more than a century of soaking.

Getting there is straightforward but remote: from Salmon, head south on Highway 28 about 17 miles, turn onto 17 Mile Road, then follow Lemhi Road and National Forest Road 185 (Warm Springs Road) a couple of miles to the springs. A small day-use fee applies (around $3 for visitors 16 and older), payable through a Recreation.gov pass — and since cell service is spotty out here, it's smart to download or print your pass before you arrive.

Open year-round, Sharkey is a treat in every season — a steaming soak under a canopy of stars in winter, or a relaxing finish to a day of hiking or biking in summer. Pack a towel and your swimsuit, follow Leave No Trace, and you'll see why Sharkey Hot Springs is one of the Salmon area's most beloved places to unwind.