I love living in Idaho. I’m pretty sure that Mother Nature did some of her best work with the hidden gems and natural wonders found throughout our great state. And while there are many incredible places that inspire and awe, Warm Springs Creek Falls is one lesser-known area that every Idahoan should know about. This unique destination is remote but it's filled with some of our favorite things about Idaho — a scenic drive, hiking trail, hot spring, and beautiful waterfall. It's a pure delight.

The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests is a destination that every Idahoan should add to their bucket list. While there are several ways to explore this area, U.S. 12, also known as the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway is one of our favorites. This is Idaho’s longest byway as it follows the route Lewis and Clark took in 1803. U.S. 12 is just a small portion of this scenic drive.

This byway is beautiful as you pass multiple historic parks and trails, state parks, and more. It’s a drive that will certainly take your breath away. And, located right next to the road is the trailhead for Warm Springs Creek Falls. This is one trail that is worth lacing up your hiking boots and going on an adventure.

The parking area and trailhead are located just east of Jerry Johnson Campground, right by the Lochsa River — just look for the gorgeous bridge that crosses the river. If you complete the trail in its entirety, you will travel approximately 9 miles and climb more than 1,300 feet in elevation.

The first few miles of this trail are where you'll encounter the most people as it leads to the beautiful and popular Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. The journey to the hot springs is just two miles and quite flat, making it doable for even beginning hikers.

The trail takes you along Warm Springs Creek and through the forest. When you reach the hot springs, you’ll find several hot pools, perfect for taking a nice, long soak. And while you’ll want some time in the hot springs, I recommend you wait until you come back down the trail. For this adventure, we are going to pass the hot pools and continue on.

You’ll head deeper into the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness and you’ll walk through thick forests and some serene meadows. Keep an eye out for animals who may come up and say hello and the various vegetation growing along your way.

We also recommend you come prepared with proper footwear, long pants, bug spray, and lots of water. The trail past the hot springs is not as well maintained and easy to follow as the first part of your journey.

The last 1.5 miles will be some of the hardest as you’ll encounter some steep inclines. Feel free to take several breaks and admire the beauty surrounding you. There is so much to love here.

At the end of the trail, you’ll come to an overlook where you’ll get to view the remote, yet enchanting Warm Springs Creek Falls. It’s a pretty magical sight.

If you wish to venture all the way to Warm Springs Creek Falls, tacking this trail in the summer and early fall is best. Due to the higher elevation, spring and late fall can bring lots of snow along your way. But, no matter when you go, you’ll fall in love with the entire journey from the drive on the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway to the waterfall at the end. Idaho is so easy to love.

For more information on this trail and to read recent hikers’ reviews, visit AllTrails.

What are some of your favorite hikes in Idaho? Have you ever soaked in Jerry Johnson Hot Springs? Have you explored the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.

If you love the hot springs in Idaho, check out this weekend itinerary for hot springs lovers. It’s a relaxing and adventurous getaway.