Goldbug Hot Springs — Attraction in Challis

A great hike in September. We parked at the small lot at the entrance to the trail. Be in decent shape for this climb, you are going UP for a good distance (3.6kms). There are 2 "camping spots" along Warm Spring Creek that can accommodate a few tents each among the trees - be respectful and clean up after your use there. There is a dry composting toilet about 2.5kms up the trail - the "Loo with a View" is a great experience for those who like interesting toilets! Hiking poles are a good idea, as is a decent supply of water for the hike. The Goldbug Hotspring GUSHES at the top of the multiple cascading pools. Too hot to touch when we were there, so be careful. The successive pools get cooler obviously as you go down. The view from nearly all of the pools is out above the valley you just climbed and it is worth the trip itself. There are many waterfalls to get a wonderful shoulder massage in. The water is beautiful and clear with a sandy bottom, but be aware that this does floating bits of "greenery" that could be alge.. make sure to rinse off any bits that stick before you leave - they are a bit gross but it is a natural hot spring so you can get over it ;) Please remember to pack out everything you bring in, maybe even a small grocery bag to collect any stray bits of trash you might see along the way - leave this world better than...

Surreal and therapeutic. I went in October with my boyfriend and our dog. The trail is a little hidden but that’s what makes it fun. The weather was still warmish and sunny with a cool breeze, AKA perfect hiking weather. It wasn’t too busy either. It’s a bit rocky in some areas. Be sure to wear some good shoes or boots. There’s a single-stall bathroom/outhouse at the entrance of the trail in case you need to change or use the restroom. The hot spring was about 4 miles up the trail so be prepared to hike a long way before you go for a swim. There were a few shaded areas to stop and rest, sit down, have a snack, etc. which was nice. The hot spring had about 3 not very large pools you can sit in. The water wasn’t very deep at all. I sat for about 15 minutes and my whole body felt AMAZING. The warm water soothed my achy muscles and the refreshing breeze was so calming. It was beautiful and clear. I felt like a new person. The people at the spring and people hiking were friendly. Bring your bathing suit if you plan on going for a...

This is a beautiful natural hot springs. The hike is not too bad but can be very treacherous during the winter with narrow trails and very steep dropoffs. Trails also ice up and snow boots with spikes are strongly advised. Many people have recently started taking small children but parents should be advised of the dangers for young children and exercise extreme caution due to risk of falls. Heat exhaustion can be an issue in the hot summer weather too. This hot springs is popular with nudists which can be an issue for families with children. Recent popularity of this location is due to BYU-Idaho advertising the location for students. On my recent weekend visit, there were nearly 100 people there. Many people bring dogs too. Camping is allowed along the trail and there are several locations where you can camp or tie a hammock...