If you have never experienced one of Idaho's natural hot springs you are missing out. One of our favorites in Eastern Idaho is Lava Hot Springs. Lava is located about
40 minutes south east of Pocatello, Idaho. The population of Lava is a mere 411 people and according to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.71 square miles of which 0.03 square miles is water.
Our last trip to Lava was one memory we will not soon forget. We loaded up the car with our swimming suites, warm jackets and two of our best friends. We made reservations at a simple little motel, Le Cascade Condos, that was literally across the street from one of the most popular
hot spring pools. We found Le Cascade Condos on the
Lava Hot Springs website from the list of accommodations. We really had no idea what we were looking for when we called a few places in town and found that Le Cascade Condos were the closest to the pool and they offer two free pool passes with your stay! That's a great deal! Most of the small motels in the area do not do online reservations but a quick phone call reserved your room.
The hot springs are famous for being natural mineral springs and the pool that we went to is separated into three different temperatures which we referred to as the "luke warm" one, the "just perfect" one and the "melt your face off" one all of which are covered. We have been there during rain and snow which totally adds to the effect. The bottom of the pools are lined with small smooth rocks so it's like a free massage and exfoliation for your feet and the steam makes for a great facial. The hot pool hours vary depending on the time of year and they have some great all day pass prices and even family passes. You can find a list of hours and rates on the
Lava Hot Springs link.
We have yet to go there in the summer but from what I have heard and read about they have an awesome Olympic swimming complex and water park and also an indoor aquatic center with a rock climbing wall.
Since the town is less than a mile long we bundled up after swimming and walked down the road to find some dinner. We ended up at the Chuck Wagon Restaurant and although it was getting close to closing time they welcomed us in out of the cold with warm smiles and hot cocoa. The food was delicious. If you are ever in the area we highly recommend stopping here for a meal. After dinner we walked a few more blocks to the Royal Hotel for a drink to stay warm.
The entire trip was a blast and we are looking forward to our next trip to southeaster Idaho. Have you ever been to Lava Hot Springs? What was your favorite part?
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