A secluded hot springs resort accessible only by snowmobile for half the year.
The small pools with water gushing out from the ground were outstanding.
Open during Winter
About a three-hour drive from Boise.
You probably won't happen to stop by Burgdorf Hot Springs in Idaho.
It is a resort located 30 miles into the Payette National Forest, after turning off State Route 55 at McCall.
Open year-round, but closed to vehicles from December to April due to heavy snowfall.
During that period, access is basically limited to snowmobiles.
The hot springs, which were sacred to the indigenous people, were “discovered” by Chinese miners.
The German name originates from the settlement of German immigrants led by Fred C. Burgdorf in the 1860s.
With the mining boom in the surrounding area, resort development progressed, and even after the boom subsided, the buildings from that time remain intact, rather than becoming complete ruins.
In 1972, the community was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a Historic District.
There are 15 cabins in total, and none of them have electricity or running water.
Guests are required to bring their own bedding, cooking utensils, lighting fixtures.
Mysterious Springs
Guests can use the thermal pools 24 hours a day.
I thought staying overnight would be too difficult, so I decided to just visit for the day.
Walk-ins require online reservations and cost $16.00 for two hours (at the time of writing).
After changing into my swimsuit in the changing room, I headed to the pool area.
Please store your valuables in the lockers in front of the restroom (please bring your own key).
The huge gravel-covered pool was as deep as an adult's height, and the water temp was around 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
The end section was separated by logs and was shallower.
プールの底全体から温泉が湧いているのかもしれませんが、基本的に北側の浴槽付近に泉源が集中している様子。
There were two small pools in the semi-open-air area.
The water in the wooden frame appeared greenish and even seemed divine.
These also had gravel at the bottom and steps inside the water.
Water temp 113 degrees F.
Water gushed out from underfoot with such force that it created ripples on the surface.
Bubbles rose continuously, and a faint smell of sulfur was detected.
There are no showers at this resort, but there is a cast iron enamel tub located where the pool drains, and soap can be used here only.
That's a lot of water.
The one and only Burgdorf Hot Springs.
It may not be popular with the public, but the freshness of the geothermal water that gushes from the ground is proof enough of its value.
Summary
Burgdorf Hot Springs, McCall, Idaho, U.S.
My rating
Type: Lodging, Walk-in
Rule: Clothing required
Chemical use: Not detected
Water temp: Up to 113 degrees F
