I’ve been going Bergdorf Hot Springs Since I was a teenager, I think it’s Typical stops on any Idaho road trip itinerary. Back in high school, my friends and I would drive there to soak and explore on weekends. I’ve experienced Burgdorf in every season for years – driving in the summer, snowmobile in fresh powder in winter, and spending the night in the cabin. A friend of mine even rented the entire place for his wedding, a very memorable way to celebrate in a remote area of Idaho.
After all these visits, I’ve figured out what’s worth bringing, when to go and how to make the most of the two-hour soaking time. If you plan to travel – whether it’s your first visit or your fifth trip, this guide has everything you need to enjoy Burgdorf for the best.
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Where is Bergdorf Hot Spring?
Burgdorf is about 30 miles north of McCall, Idaho. It is a historic hot spring resort that first opened in the 1870s after miners discovered geothermal water in the area. It still has a rustic, old-fashioned feel-cottage, outhouse and no cellular service. In that case things slowed down in a good way.
Getting there depends on the season:
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What to expect during soaking
Burgdorf’s hot pool is fed with natural geothermal spring water and stays at 100°F for approximately 100°F throughout the year. There are two large pools, a smaller pool, and two covered bathtubs, which are much hotter – and can be soaked quickly if you want higher temperatures.
While the pool area can accommodate up to 200 people, that doesn’t mean it’s a free thing. Bergdorf now limits the number of visitors and requires Book a two-hour soaking session. Walking is no longer accepted, which helps keep the atmosphere relaxed and crowded.
Make the most of the soaking tips:
Stay overnight: What do you know about the cabin
Burgdorf has 15 rural lob cabins that you can rent all year round. I’ve been in the cabin a few times now and while they’re basic, they’re comfortable and a great way to extend the time on the spring, especially since overnight guests will get 24-hour access to the swimming pooleven after the end of the daytime use.
The cabins don’t have electricity or tap water, but they do have wood stoves, simple furniture and lots of features. You will be within walking distance to the pool, outhouse and main office.
Cabin details:
- Sleeping 2-6 people
- Starting from $175 per night
- Minimum stay for 2 nights
- Pets are not allowed
- Book online burgdorfhotsprings.com Or call 208-636-3036
What to stay with cabin:
- Sleeping bags and pillows (mattress provided)
- lantern or Headlights (Battery or solar powered)
- Camp stove +Cooking equipment
- Food, snacks and water containers (drinking water is provided on site)
- Towels, swimsuits and warm clothes
- Trash bags to pack everything you bring
Alternative camping options
If you don’t want to book a cabin, the Forest Service Hall campground is next door, just a few minutes’ walk. These sites are first come first served, first come first served, and only $10 per night. However, you won’t get a 24/7 visit to Bergdorf just like you live in the cabin. If you are camping at Jeanette Campground or another nearby location, you still need to book your soaking time during regular public hours.
For tips on finding other free or cheap camping sites in the area, check out me A guide to finding a free camping site.
Visit in summer
In summer, driving onto Via Warren Wagon Road is easy and scenic. Now is a good time to get soaked with hiking or camping.
Activities near summer:
- Loon Lake Loop (12 miles): One of my favorite local hikes – moderate, big forest and lake views
- Mountain bike and gravel cycling
- Fishing in nearby streams
- Discover wild animals (I have seen deer outside my hut at dusk)
Even in July and August, the temperature can drop at night, so if you stay overnight, bring the upper layer.
Visit in winter: Snowmobile
Winter in Bergdorf is a completely different experience. The roads are totally snowing, so you need snowmobile and that’s where the adventure really begins.
Me and Brundage Mountain Snowmobile Adventurewhich is easily one of the funniest ways I’ve ever been to the hot springs. Our guides Jake and Robbie led us through the remote trails, ridges, and along a snow-covered road until we reached the spring. Have fresh powder around and then soak in a hot pool when the snow falls? This is a difficult combination to beat.
Brundage Snowmobile Adventure
If you spend the night in the winter, bring a warm sleeping bag (rated at 15°F or less), extra food and lots of food Warm layered basics. The cabin is kept warm with a wood stove, but once the fire dies, the cold can quickly sneak in.
Food and beverages
You need to bring all your own food and drinks to Burgdorf, especially if you stay overnight or snowmobile in. There are no restaurants or shops on site.
on site:
nearby:
Alcohol is not allowed in the swimming pool or anywhere around it. They are strict with it, so they leave the drink behind and respect the atmosphere.
Final Tips
Some final ideas can help you plan:
Visited after growing up Bergdorf Hot Springsand year after year, I can honestly say that this is one of the most unique hot spring destinations in Idaho. It’s remote, rustic, with a bit rough edges, but that’s exactly what’s worth traveling.
Whether you’re soaking in the summer snowmobile winter or camping nearby, Bergdorf is the kind of place you want to go back to.
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