Frenchman's Hot Springs, also known as Frenchman's Bend Hot SpringsorWarfield Hot Springs, is a hot spring located along Warm Springs Creek in the Sawtooth National Forest, 11 miles (17.7km) from Ketchum, Idaho.[5][4] The springs are composed of three wide, shallow pools. The pools are rock-walled, with sand and gravel covered bottoms. The average temperature of the springs varies throughout the year, but most of the time, water enters the springs at around 124°F (51.11°C). The water in the springs is usually clear.[1][4]
The springs can be accessed by following Warm Springs Road for 11 miles southwest of Ketchum, Idaho. The last 7 miles of the road are a well-maintained dirt road. Parking is limited.[6] The springs are open for public use year-round.[7][8] However, the springs are often inaccessible during the winter and spring seasons, due to ice, snow, and spring runoff causing avalanches and slick road conditions, making the road impassable.[9] As such, most visitors visit from June to October.[10][6]
There are three total pools at the springs. One is easily accessible off the main road, whereas the other two pools are reached by wading across Warm Springs Creek.[6] Water is generally at a temperature of 124°F (51.11°C) when entering the springs, but can be controlled by shifting rocks in the dam.[4]
The hot mineral water emerges from the source at 124°F / 51.11°C.[12] Underground aquifer temperatures have been recorded at 131°F.[13] Mineral content analyses show the following in mg/L: Calcium 2.1, Magnesium 0.03, Sodium 69, Potassium 1.90; pH 9.1.[12]
^Berry, George W.; Grim, Paul J.; Ikelman, Joy A. (1980). Thermal Spring List for the United States. Boulder, Colorardo: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. p. 21. Retrieved 4 January 2022.
