Just over the Utah border to the north, in Southeast Idaho, Lava Hot Springs offers year-round soaking in the clearest and cleanest hot springs in North America. The water is laden with minerals, but has no sulfur, and therefore, no bad odor. Temperatures in the pools range from 102 to 112 degrees. Natural hot spring water feeds the soaking pools with 2.5 million gallons of water per day, keeping the pools fresh, clean and ever-changing.

Unlike most hot springs, the Idaho State-run foundation offers modern facilities such as clean dressing rooms with heated floors so your feet stay warm year-round. Visitors to Lava can also visit the State Swim Complex, located at the entrance to Lava Hot Springs. They offer a 25-yard indoor pool for year-round use, and a 50-meter pool with four slides, diving boards and a diving platform, open only from Memorial Day to Labor Day. During the summer, another popular activity is tubing down the Portneuf River which runs the length of town. There are several locations to launch and get out. Tube rentals are available at several merchants in town.

The town of Lava offers many hotels, motels, and restaurants, all within walking distance of the Hot Springs and pools. Some of the hotels even offer private tubs with hot spring water for soaking, and there are campgrounds with RV accommodations. Food options in Lava range from fine dining to burgers, fries, and pizza.

There are lots of gift shops and even a grocery store. You can also golf, hike and bike to enjoy the natural setting that small-town America has to offer.

Lava Hot Springs is just two and a half hours north of Salt Lake City, about halfway between Salt Lake and Yellowstone National Park. Take I-15 North to Exit 47-US 30E, then travel east on 30E for 11.2 miles.

For more information, call (208) 776-5221 or (800) 423-8597.

portneuf River