Weir Creek Hot Springs is located on US Hwy 12, about 70 miles east of Kooskia, ID. There was a little road construction on the highway as they widen the shoulders of the road, but otherwise, it was a nice, easy drive to the trailhead. At the trailhead is parking for about 6 to 7 vehicles. There is a vault toilet at the trailhead as well, tho this was being repaired and refurbished in early June when we visited. The forest service has placed time use limitations upon the area, so perhaps there will be less vandalism in the future. The trail is only open from 6 am. to 8 pm..

The hike to the hot springs was roughly .7 miles one way. The trail follows above the creek for most of the way. There are some rocks and roots across the path, so be prepared to have to pay a little attention. The trail is probably a moderate difficulty when not covered in snow or ice. If visiting in the winter, crampons or microspikes are recommended due to the nature of the trail. Hiking above the first hot spring pool proved quite slippery even in the absence of ice as the granite rock and water created a not so easy to traverse surface.
The main pool is probably about 10 ft. by 10 ft. in size. It was quite warm and I only placed my feet in the pool. It is deep enough to fully submerse oneself if so desired. The water flows out of the main pool into some pools by the creek. I was unable to find a way to reach those pools without getting deeper into the creek than I wanted, so I cannot attest to the quality of those pools.

We chose to camp about 8 miles from the trailhead at Colgate Campground. This is a more primitive campground, lacking tables or fire pits, but there is a vault toilet in the area. There are no garbage services, so pack out your own garbage. There are about 6 campsites available. The Lochsa River flows besides the campground, with US Hwy 12 on the other side. As the highway is not that busy, the traffic noise is not that bad. The river was much louder. We enjoyed an easy night of rest and thoroughly enjoyed the mostly empty campground.

We both enjoy visiting this area a few times a year. The Weir Creek Hot Springs are totally worth the short hike. Camping opportunities are quite abundant, and Colgate campground proves that you do not need to spend a lot of money to enjoy the outdoors. This section of the Hwy 12 corridor is full of camping, hiking, and river associated activities like rafting and fishing. With its’ easy access, it is a location that is worth visiting at least once, especially if you live within a few hours drive.

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