Fifth Water Hot Springs is Utah’s Insta-Famous Soaking Spot (Still Worth It?)

Fifth Water Hot Springs has become one of Utah’s most famous soaking spots, thanks to its milky blue water and easy access from Salt Lake City. But with popularity comes crowds, and not everyone loves what it’s turned into. Some say it’s overrun with influencers, drones, and too many people, while others think it’s just part of the deal with well-known outdoor destinations. If you still want to visit, here’s how to avoid the madness and get the most out of your experience.

How to Get to the Fifth Water Hotsprings Trailhead

Start in Salt Lake City, hop on US-6 E, and make your way toward Spanish Fork. Once you’re there, take a left onto Diamond Fork Road (mile marker 184) and cruise for about 10 miles until you hit the Three Forks Trailhead parking lot. That’s your spot. The Fifth Water Hot Springs Trailhead itself isn't a separate lot, it's just where the trail starts after you park at Three Forks.

There’s a parking lot at Three Forks Trailhead, but heads up, it fills up fast, especially on weekends and during peak leaf-peeping season in the fall. Parking on the road? I would highly recommend not. There have been reports of ticketing which just truly isn’t worth it.

Winter Might Make Parking Look a Little Bit Different

When winter storms roll in, the Forest Service sometimes closes Diamond Fork Road a ways away from the trailhead. If this happens, you’ve got options.

I’ve seen people fat bike and XC ski the extra ~6 miles it takes to reach the hot springs. If you don’t mind the extra effort, winter hiking is also an option, but bring spikes or snowshoes because that trail gets slick as the snow gets packed down by foot traffic.

I have seen so many people abandon the hike and turn back due to ice on the trail which is a real bummer after fighting for parking and paying the $10 fee.

Final Pro Tip: Use AllTrails Over Google Maps

Before you go, check AllTrails for recent trip reports. People leave updates about trail conditions, road closures, and just how crowded it’s been lately. Plus, the app actually knows where the Fifth Water Hot Springs Trailhead is (unlike Google Maps, which sometimes sends people into the middle of Diamond Fork Canyon).

Bonus: There’s a bathroom at the trailhead, but let’s just say it’s rustic. Bring your own TP. (There are also reports that this bathroom has been closed for a few months this winter so plan accordingly!)

What to Expect on the Trail

The hike to Fifth Water Hot Springs is 4.6 miles round trip with about 636 feet of elevation gain. It’s a steady, moderate climb that feels easy on the way in but a little tougher on the way out, especially after a long soak. Nothing too steep, but you’ll notice the incline more on the return trip.

From the Three Forks Trailhead, the trail follows Sixth Water Creek for the first mile. It’s easy to navigate and well-marked. You’ll stick to the left side of the creek until you reach a wooden bridge—that’s your cue to cross. From there, you’ll be hiking along Fifth Water Creek, where the scenery starts to shift. The canyon walls get steeper, and you might catch a few wisps of steam rising from the rocks.

That’s when you know you’re getting close! The air starts to smell like sulfur, and the creek water turns a really pretty milky blue. Once you see the first soaking pools, you’ve made it. There’s a little more trail beyond the lower pools, leading up to a small waterfall with even more soaking spots.

Finding the Best Soaking Spot

Not all pools at Fifth Water Hot Springs are the same. The ones closest to the waterfall are the hottest, often hitting 120°F. Great in winter but almost too hot in warmer months. As you move downstream, the temperature drops, with most pools settling between 90-105°F. If you want a long, comfortable soak, test the water before committing.

The waterfall pool is the most famous, but it’s also the busiest. If you want the picture-perfect soak, you’ll probably have to share. The lower pools are usually less crowded, especially if you visit early or on a weekday. Some have natural rock walls built up to trap heat, while others are more open to the stream which makes them a bit cooler.

If you’re looking for peace and quiet, your best bet is to show up before sunrise or stay late in the evening. Crowds thin out during those hours, and you’ll have a better chance of finding a pool to yourself. In winter, the springs are stunning under the snow, but the hike out in the dark can be tricky. You’ll definitely want to bring a headlamp and traction spikes if you go later in the day.

When to Go (and When to Skip It)

Fall: Stunning, but Crowded

Spanish Fork Canyon puts on a show in the fall, with bright red and yellow leaves lining the trail. The cooler air makes the hike more comfortable, and the contrast of the milky blue water against the fall colors is truly unreal. The downside? Everyone else has the same idea. Weekends are packed, and parking fills up early. If you want those postcard-perfect views without the chaos, aim for a weekday at sunrise.

Winter: Quiet and Beautiful, but Plan Ahead

Winter is hands down the best time to visit if you want fewer people and a more peaceful soak. Diamond Fork Canyon is stunning this time of year and the steam rising from the pools makes it even more surreal. The tradeoff? Diamond Fork Road sometimes closes after a big storm which, like I mentioned above, can add extra miles to your trek.

Spring & Summer: Warm Water, Bugs, and Bigger Crowds

Spring means snowmelt, which can cool the pools down a little. It also brings muddy trails and more hikers excited to get outside. By summer, the bugs show up, and it can get hot on the trail. The springs still feel great at night, but daytime visits can be less fun as temps climb. If you go during these months, start early and bring bug spray.

The Weekday Sunrise Hack

If you want the best experience any time of year, go on a weekday before sunrise. You’ll skip the biggest crowds, find an open pool, and get the added bonus of watching the morning light hit the canyon.

What to Pack for a Smooth Hike and Relaxing Soak

• Traction spikes or crampons – The trail gets icy, and plenty of people turn around because they didn’t bring them.
• Headlamp – If you’re hiking in the dark (which you might be if you want to avoid crowds), you’ll need it.
• Layers – The hike in is cold, the hike out is warm, and standing around wet isn’t fun. Dress accordingly.
• Swimsuit under your clothes – Changing at the springs can be awkward as there really isn’t a whole lot of privacy. Skip the hassle and come prepared.
• Dry bag – Wet clothes and gear don’t mix. Keep them separate.
• Beanie – If it’s cold out, you’ll want something to keep your head warm during and after soaking.
• Tarp or mat – The ground is wet and muddy. If you don’t want your stuff soaked, bring something to set it on.

The “Leave No Digital Trace” Debate: Are We Loving Fifth Water to Death?

Fifth Water Hot Springs has always been a popular spot, but social media has really ramped things up. With more people tagging the location, posting drone shots, and treating the springs like a photo studio, there’s a growing conversation about whether this kind of exposure is doing more harm than good.

Traditional Leave No Trace principles focus on minimizing physical impact... packing out your trash, staying on the trail, and not damaging the environment. But what about the digital impact? When a location goes viral, crowds follow, and that often leads to more litter, trail erosion, and an overall diminished experience. Some argue that geotagging should be limited to protect fragile places, while others believe people have a right to share and discover outdoor spots however they want.

I’m not here to say you should do things one way or another, but there are a few things you should consider if a visit to Fifth Water is on your bucket list:

• Drones are highly disruptive. While technically legal, they’ve gotten a bit out of hand. The sound alone can take away from the peaceful experience. If you’re set on bringing one, go early on a weekday so you’re not disturbing a packed crowd.
• Hot springs aren’t just content for social media. They’re a place people come to relax, heal, and connect with nature. If you post about them, remind your followers to be responsible visitors—mention Leave No Trace and encourage people to treat the springs with care.
• Some people prefer to soak nude. It’s common here, and most regulars don’t think twice about it. If you’re snapping photos, be mindful of who’s around and respect people’s privacy. If you’re uncomfortable with nudity, just know you might see it—best to go in with the right expectations.
• Leave the camera crew at home. More than a few visitors have shown up only to find an influencer-style production taking over the pools. This is a shared space, not a private content studio. If you’re taking photos, do it quickly and respectfully—don’t turn it into a whole shoot.
• Leave it better than you found it. The best visitors pack out more than just their own trash. If you see garbage along the way, take a minute to pick it up. Small efforts like this go a long way in keeping the springs clean.
• Be intentional about geotagging. If you’re posting, think about who you’re sharing it with. Public geotags can contribute to overcrowding, especially for delicate outdoor spaces. Some people choose to tag more generally (like "Utah Hot Springs") instead of pinning the exact location. It’s worth considering.

At the end of the day, Fifth Water is for everyone. The best way to enjoy it (and keep it special for others) is to visit with respect, awareness, and a little bit of effort.

Camping and Other Adventures Nearby

Can You Camp at Fifth Water Hot Springs?

No, camping isn’t allowed at the hot springs or along the trail, but there are some solid options nearby. Spanish Fork Canyon has multiple campgrounds, and if you're looking for dispersed camping, there are a few spots along Diamond Fork Road where you can set up for the night. Springville also has some campgrounds and RV parks if you need amenities.

Other Utah Hot Springs to Check Out

If you’re on a hot springs tour of Utah, here are a few more to add to your list:

• Meadow Hot Springs (near Fillmore) – Private but open to the public, with crystal-clear soaking pools.
• Baker Hot Springs (west of Delta) – More remote and less crowded, but pools can get really hot.
• Mystic Hot Springs (Monroe) – Famous for its tubs built into the hillside, but there’s a small fee to visit.
• Horseshoe Springs (near Tooele) – A unique warm spring with a cool, clear-water soak.

Planning a full adventure?

Whether you’re mapping out your next hot springs road trip or looking for the best campsites near Diamond Fork, Camping.Tools makes it easy. Use the free app to discover new destinations, book stays, and connect with a community of fellow travelers who know the road as well as you do. Download Camping.Tools and start planning your next soak!

Backpacking Routes That Include Fifth Water

Fifth Water Hot Springs makes a great stop on a longer backpacking route if you’re up for an extended adventure. One option is to combine it with a multi-day trip through Diamond Fork Canyon, linking up with trails in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. There aren’t many official backcountry sites in the immediate area, but with some planning, you can turn this into part of a bigger trek.

If you're looking for a hot spring + overnight combo, another idea is to soak at Fifth Water, then drive south to camp near Meadow Hot Springs for a second soak under the stars.

Final Thought: Is It Still Worth It?

Yes—but only if you do it right. Go at the right time, pack smart, respect the space, and know what you’re walking into. Otherwise, you’ll just be another person complaining in the AllTrails comments! (They’re mostly positive, don’t worry :) )