Some interesting thoughts and a good read I found on the net:
**This Idaho trail leads to 104°F pools where winter steam rises through ancient cedars**
By John, 26/01/2026
his Idaho forest corridor leads to three steaming pools where 104°F water meets winter snow. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs sits 2.6 miles from Highway 12, free to all who earn their soak through towering cedars and pines.
The trailhead appears at mile marker 152, just across from Warm Springs Pack Bridge. Parking holds 20-30 vehicles in the plowed lot, with overflow along the roadside. January brings 1-3 feet of snow, making micro-spikes or snowshoes essential for the 1-2 hour round-trip hike.
The cedar corridor to warmth
Western Red Cedar dominates this ancient forest, some trees reaching 300-500 years old. Morning light filters green through the canopy around 7:30am. Warm Springs Creek runs alongside the trail, its winter flow reduced to quiet whispers between ice-covered rocks.
The 2.6-mile path gains minimal elevation, staying near 3,200 feet throughout. Winter wildlife includes deer and elk, though deep snow keeps sightings rare. Forest silence dominates, broken only by occasional ice cracking in the distance.
Where winter brings back quiet
Three natural rock pools await at trail’s end, each carved by artesian springs flowing year-round. The upper pool runs hottest at 104°F and deepest at 3 feet, seating 4-6 people comfortably.
The 2017 silt event that changed crowds
Spring runoff in 2017 filled pools with silt and debris, naturally reducing visitor numbers. This geological reset created today’s quieter atmosphere, with winter weekdays seeing 0-5 visitors and weekends hosting 10-20 people maximum.
Three pools of varying heat
The middle pool offers 100-102°F temperatures with easier rock-step access. The lower pool stays cooler at 100°F but draws fewer crowds. High mineral content creates a subtle sulfur scent, while silica deposits smooth the natural rock formations.
Soaking among the cedars
January air temperatures range from 10°F at night to 35°F during the day. Steam rises dramatically from pools against the cold air, creating ethereal morning mist through the forest.
Winter snowshoe access
Sharp rocks in pools require water shoes for safe entry. The clothing-optional tradition continues year-round, though families and solo travelers share the space respectfully. Winter conditions in nearby Montana create similar pristine wilderness experiences...
Continue to the source:
https://www.journee-mondiale.com/en/this-idaho-trail-leads-to-104f-pools-where-winter-steam-rises-through-ancient-cedars
#Nudity2026 #FKK #Freikörperkultur #Naturism #Nudism #Nudity #Nudist #ProudNudist #GetNakedGermany #Bodyfreedom #TeamNaturist #NaturistSymbol #IamTheFaceOfNaturism #NormalisingNaturism #HikeNaked #Nacktwandern #NaturismusNeuErleben #EinfachMachen #ClothingOptional #BeBareBeProud #Mastodon #BodyAcceptance #Nacktbaden #Skinnydip #BodyPositive #Diversity #TopFreedom #FreeTheNipple #ClothesFree #ClothesFreeLife