Goldbug Hot Springs — also known as Elk Bend Hot Springs — is one of Idaho's most beloved backcountry soaks, a series of natural terraced pools tucked into a rugged canyon in the Salmon-Challis National Forest south of Salmon. Fed by hot water that spills down the hillside in steaming little waterfalls and mingles with a cold mountain creek, the pools offer a range of temperatures and a postcard-perfect setting that makes the uphill hike more than worth it.

Reaching the springs is a rewarding adventure: a roughly 2-mile climb each way (about 4 miles round trip) up the Warm Springs Trail, gaining a good chunk of elevation as it follows the creek into the canyon. The payoff is a cluster of rock-rimmed pools perched on the hillside, where you can soak in the warm water and gaze out over the wild Idaho mountains.

An important access note: the first quarter-mile of trail crosses private property, with public access provided by an easement — and the limited parking at the trailhead is on private land too. Please respect the privilege: keep dogs leashed across the private stretch, don't block driveways, follow posted signs, and pack out absolutely everything so this access stays open for everyone.

The trailhead is about 23 miles south of Salmon on Highway 93, just south of Elk Bend (turn east onto Warm Springs Road near milepost 282 and follow the dirt road to its end). The springs can be enjoyed year-round, though the trail is hot and exposed in summer and can be icy in winter, so bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and a headlamp if you'll be out past dark. Soak in, tread lightly, and savor one of Idaho's finest wild hot springs.