Discover Idaho’s Blue Heart Spring: A Hidden Gem with Stunning Caribbean Blue Waters

When you think of an oasis of bright-blue water, Idaho probably doesn’t come to mind. However, Idaho has long hidden one such site — and it’s only accessible by boat.

Idaho’s Blue Heart Spring is easily one of the most visually stunning natural springs in the U.S. Consequently, it remains a mystery to most due to its hard-to-reach, water-bound location and cool temperature (to be clear, this is not a hot spring). To get there, travelers must paddle up the Snake River near the tiny town of Buhl, Idaho. Along the way, you’ll pass the Box Canyon confluence, where the cold, blue Box Canyon water visibly mixes with the Snake River water.

Just past the outlet to Box Canyon, the Snake River bends to the west, while a small passage continues north, leading to a forested area. Once you boat through the passage, it opens up into Blue Heart Spring — a quiet and serene space that’s surrounded by trees and lava rock.

The crystal-clear waters of Blue Heart Spring are shockingly blue. Moreover, the water hovers around 58 degrees even on the hottest days, making it an ideal location for a midsummer dip. Whether you choose to swim or stay on your watercraft, be sure to peer through the clear waters to watch the sandy floor of the spring bubble as the water pushes up through the ground.

3. Getting There: Kayaking to the Oasis

The journey to Blue Heart Spring is best done by kayak or paddleboard since boat engines are not permitted to run inside the oasis. The best launch point is near Banbury Rentals, which rents paddleboards and kayaks and offers guided day trips. It typically takes between 35 and 45 minutes to paddle from Banbury to the Blue Heart Spring passage.

While Blue Heart Spring is still a lesser-known site, it is a favorite place for locals. Therefore, it is advisable to visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds — and make sure to pack out your trash.

4. Nearby Attractions: Miracle Hot Springs

Just a couple of miles west of Blue Heart Spring is Miracle Hot Springs, a geothermal hot spring that will quickly banish any chill that remains from your Blue Heart Spring dip. Miracle Hot Springs boasts four general admission pools, 15 private pools, and group soaking ponds. Overnight guests can choose from a series of geodesic domes, a home rental, and campsites.

Buhl, Idaho, the closest town to both Blue Heart Spring and Miracle Hot Springs, is less than two hours from Boise, Idaho, by car.