Remote Hot Springs Offer Soothing Soak At Right Price

Q: We enjoy hiking and camping and also look for vacation spots near natural hot springs. We have visited all the well-known commercial pools in the Inland Northwest. Can you suggest some off-the-beaten-path hot springs in Idaho and other local states. - T.T.L., Hayden Lake.

A: I am familiar with two out-of-the-way hot springs in north-central Idaho that would meet your weekend trip needs for hiking, camping and soaking.

Both are located off U.S. 12, which parallels the Lochsa River. Plan on about a three-hour drive east of Lewiston to reach the trailheads along this scenic river drive. There are several forest service campgrounds off U.S. 12 near the springs for camping.

Weir Creek Hot Springs trailhead is about 45 miles east of Lowell on the north side of the highway. The small pool area is about one-half mile from the highway pullout (near milepost 142).

Jerry Johnson Hot Springs trailhead is about 55 miles east of Lowell on the south side of the highway. The Warm Springs Pack Bridge (near milepost 152) spans the river to allow access to the three separate hot springs. Each of the springs has a couple of pools.

Information sources:

“The Hiker’s Guide to Hot Springs in the Pacific Northwest” (Falcon Press) identifies 47 remote hot springs in Idaho, Washington and Oregon. The book has a detailed description of the hiking trails to the natural hot springs.

For more information on the hot springs, other recreational opportunities and forest service campgrounds along U.S. 12: Clearwater National Forest headquarters in Orofino, (208) 476- 4541.

Q: We plan to drive the Cascade Loop Highway and stay at roadside country inns or bed & breakfast homes. We already plan to stay at our favorite place in Leavenworth for one night. Can you suggest some inns on both sides of Washington Pass? - S.I. and T.P., Veradale.

A: The Cascade Loop is a popular scenic drive, and there are lots of lodging choices along the route. Unfortunately, there are no B&Bs or country inns along Washington 20 on the west side of the Cascade Mountains. I am, however, familiar with the following suggested properties, which offer fine hospitality.

The Hotel Planter (360/466-4710) on First Street in downtown La Conner is a restored historic 1907 hotel. It has 12 rooms with private baths and a courtyard with a hot tub. There is a bakery across the street, which is a popular local spot for breakfast. Double occupancy rates range from $70-$110.

Amy’s Manor Bed & Breakfast (509/923-2334) near Pateros on Washington 153 is a stately home located on a hillside overlooking the Methow River. The manor is nestled among towering evergreens on 170 acres of forested land, so you’ll have a quiet night’s rest. The breakfast fare is superb. One of the co-owners is a culinary institute trained chef who has an organic herb and vegetable garden, and she conducts cooking classes at the Manor. Lodging and cooking class packages are available upon request. Double occupancy rates start at $70.

Information sources:

The Cascade Loop Traveler’s Guide is a great traveling companion. The highway guide highlights points of interest and attractions, gives an informative description of towns and geological features along the loop drive, and lists local chambers of commerce and other information numbers for lodgings and restaurants.

For a free copy, write to The Cascade Loop Association, P.O. Box 3245, Wenatchee, WA 98807 or call (509) 662- 3888.

For a free copy of the 1995 Washington State Lodging & Travel Guide: Washington Tourism Division, (800) 544-1800, ext. 101.

Q: We are planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park via Idaho and the park’s west entrance. What is there to see and do in Idaho before we cross Targhee Pass to West Yellowstone and enter the park? - B.V., Chatteroy.

A: The Island Park area in southeastern Idaho is the world’s largest crater (caldera) formed by a collapsed volcano. The caldera is approximately 18 by 23 miles. The area along U.S. 20 has many scenic and historic attractions and is a popular vacation destination for year-round outdoor recreation enthusiasts.

Here are some noteworthy points of interest:

Henry’s Fork of the Snake River is well known for its superb trout fly-fishing.

The Mesa Falls Scenic Loop takes travelers to spectacular views of Upper and Lower Mesa Falls.

Harriman State Park is a historically significant Idaho ranch and wildlife refuge.

Henry’s Lake State Park is popular for fishing, camping, hiking and wildlife watching.

Big Springs National Water Trail offers a scenic canoe paddle.

Information sources:

For regional information on attractions, seasonal events and festivals, recreation and accommodations: Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce, (208) 523-1010.

For a free copy of the 1995 Idaho Travel Guide: Idaho Travel Council, (800) 635-7820.

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