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Diamond Fork Hot Springs has several man-made rock pools in which to enjoy a relaxing soak. The hot springs bubbling from the ground are naturally cooled by the waterfall that runs directly into the pools from the east side. This beautiful waterfall, rich in green moss, provides a stunning backdrop for the pools. The hike is great year-round, and the springs provide a variety of soaking temperatures. The path to the pools follows along the creek the entire way, and the beautiful rolling trail is a joy in itself.

Start: Three Forks trailhead

Distance: 5.0 miles out and back

Hiking time: About 2.5 hours plus soaking time

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation gain: 632 feet

Trail surface: Dirt and rock path

Best season: Year-round; snowshoes may be needed in winter

Other trail users: Bikers

Canine compatibility: Leashed dogs permitted

Land status: Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Nearest town: Spanish Fork

Fees and permits: No fees or permits required

Schedule: Once the road is no longer passable by car in winter, a gate is closed across the road 3 miles from the Three Forks trailhead. You can park along the road before the gate and snowshoe the extra 3 miles into the trailhead.

Maps: USGS Rays Valley

Trail contacts: Spanish Fork Ranger District; (801) 798 3571

Special considerations: Cows are allowed to graze in the area during summer, so watch your step. Beware of rattlesnakes during warmer months as well. Carry insect repellent, and remember that if you stay in hot pools for an extended time your body can become dehydrated, so take plenty of water. Consider carrying an extra garbage bag to help keep the place tidy. This trail struggles with high usage, and forgetful bathers leave all kinds of things.

Finding the trailhead: From Salt Lake City travel south on I-15 to the exit for US 6/Spanish Fork/Price (exit 258). Head east off the exit into Spanish Fork Canyon for 11 miles and then turn off the main highway to the north, toward Diamond Fork Campground. A sign on the highway indicates the unobtrusive side road. Travel on Diamond Fork Canyon Road for 10 miles to the Three Forks trailhead—a sign marks the spot. There is a pit toilet at the gravel parking area. The trail leaves from the east southeast side of the parking lot. GPS: N0 05.072' / W111 21.307'

The Hike

A soak in Diamond Fork Hot Springs makes for a fun day trip to get away from the hustle and bustle of life. Located up Diamond Fork but along the Fifth Water Creek, the natural hot springs go by both names. There are two sets of pools. The trail reaches the lower pools first, which are cooler and colored by minerals. The upper pools, 100 feet up the trail, are nearer the hot spring source and are warmer than the lower pools.

The trail to the hot springs leaves the parking area through a gate on the southeast. The trail almost immediately forks, with the right fork crossing a bridge and the left heading up the north side of Fifth Water Creek. Take the left fork and head straight up near the creek. The trail continues along the left side of Fifth Water for the next 1.2 miles, where it crosses over Sixth Water on a bridge and heads right, up the Fifth Water tributary for the final 1.3 miles to the hot springs.

The well-used trail is easy to follow, with fascinating conglomerate rock formations and walls along the way. The sound of the streams serenades the hike, and as you get closer to the hot springs, the sulfur smell marks the spot.

The pools are blue and green; the rocks are covered in a white buildup. Small waterfalls pour into the lower pools, while a 20-foot waterfall stands sentinel over the upper pools. The area is natural and generally unmonitored, and there are no changing areas or restrooms. Pack out everything you bring in, as well as anything the less considerate have left behind.

After a nice soak—which is fun both night and day and really shines in winter—return the way you came.

Miles and Directions

0.0Start at Three Forks trailhead.

40 feetReach the first fork at the beginning of the trail; take the left fork and follow the path up the north side of the stream.

1.2Come to the bridge that crosses Sixth Water Creek; cross and continue up Fifth Water Creek.

2.5Arrive at the lower hot pools. The upper pools are 100 feet up the trail. Return the way you came.

5.0Arrive back at the trailhead.

Hike Information

Camping: Diamond Fork Campground, located 6 miles up Diamond Fork Canyon, is managed by the US Forest Service. Open May 15 to October 15, the campground sits at an elevation of 5,200 feet and has vault toilets, picnic tables, drinking water, and fishing for brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. There are 68 sites available. The campground sits amidst cottonwood trees and towering red rock. For reservations call (877) 444-6777 or go to www.recreation.gov.

Guide services: Gone Hiking: For guided hiking retreats in the area go to: www.UtahHikingRetreat.com or call (801) 663-6964.