Pronounced “LAV-uh” (as in have or apple), Lava Hot Springs is a quiet town named after its famous hot springs. It makes for a great day trip from Pocatello, an awesome base camp for Pebble Creek, and a worthwhile respite while traveling back from Jackson Hole. Only two hours from Salt Lake City, it makes for a perfect day trip when the snow isn’t falling. Here’s just a few things to know about this cool hamlet.
Why The Lava Hot Springs Are World Famous
These therapeutic springs offer something that very few others do – No smell! Bubbling out of natural underground springs through granite lined pools, the water contains minerals but are sulfur-free, meaning no smelly odor. Offering multiple geothermal hot spring pools ranging from 102 to 112 degrees, you’ll feel like Goldie Lox after you find the pool that is juuuusst right.
Not Just One Set Of Pools
In addition to the hot pools, the town of Lava Hot Springs also has another complex geared more towards summer – Olympic Swimming Complex & Indoor Aquatic Center. Located four blocks west of the world famous pools, these are less about hot springs and more about classic pool. The indoor aquatic center is open all year-round and the outdoor pool season starts in late May (around Memorial Day) and closes on September 4th. In addition to the large pool, you’ll find the Portneuf Kiddie Cove, a diving tower, and even water slides. A perfect option to cool off on a hot summer’s day.
Sunken Gardens
Yet another hidden gem. This free to access gardens located just above the pools made us feel as if we were transported to a Japanese Garden outside of Nagano. The terraced gardens and small caves in any season provide you an opportunity to do a bit of forest bathing and are worth a pit stop. Due to it being so close to the hot springs, wildflowers can be seen blooming into as late as September. While the gardens look like they are built into lava formations, they’re actually the remains of algae reefs formed in the Portneuf River long ago.
Adorable Lodging At Alpaca Inn
Looking for an affordable one of a kind experience? Then the Alpaca Inn is it! Situated in the center of town, this place is named after the owner’s love of their beloved alpaca farm. From an alpaca shaped mirror to an alpaca room number, the theme is found throughout making it one-of-a kind. The owners make you feel right at home. Just like you’re part of their family and take care of your every need. Once your stay is over, you won’t want to leave!
Fantastic Thai Food
In a town small enough to walk from one end to the other, the furthest cuisine you’d think of in southeastern Idaho would be Thai. And yet, here it is! In a nondescript building next to the only gas station is the Riverwalk Cafe. Serving all the classic Thai dishes, if you’re a foodie and feel like exploring, we recommend the catfish dinner. The outer crispy coating adds a flavor to the tender and flaky meat that is beyond words. For someone less adventurous, try the chicken rice noodle dish. The spicy sauce combines well with the tender chicken and crunchy cabbage making an overall great meal.
Fire And Ice Festival
There isn’t a bad time to soak at the beautiful hot springs. But if you want to combine it with a one-of-a kind festival, head to Lava Hot Springs in early February. Named by USA Today as not just one of the zaniest in the country but in the WORLD, Fire And Ice Festival is something to be seen in person. Glancing at the list of the events, it may look tame until you look deeper. For example, there is a Polar Bear Float. This isn’t just a quick “dip” and you’re done. Event goers FLOAT the icy Portneuf River. Then there is the “Running of the Bulls.” Starting at one side of town, contestants run in their swimming suits and flip flops down Main Street and then jump into the State Foundation Pools. And then all the fire dancing! Talk about embracing the “Fire and Ice” theme.
Challenging skiing, famous hot springs, and fantastic events like the Fire & Ice Festival make this the perfect place to find rest & relaxation. After visiting Lava Hot Springs, you’ll understand why this place is considered one of Idaho’s best kept secrets.
You forgot to mention the famous ice cream shop with square ice cream!