The Trail
This moderate trail is about 2.5 miles long with a 684 foot elevation change. It leads to a series of pools of varying temperatures that are fed by creek water and a hot spring. These pools are popular places to relax all year round.
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| Topographical Map |
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| Graph of Elevation |
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| Topographical Map |
The trail starts out following Sixth Water Creek for the first 1.1 miles. There are lots of cliffs mostly composed of conglomerate rock to the sides of the trail. After crossing the bridge the trail continues to follow the smaller Fifth Water Creek to the hot springs.
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| Bridge over Sixth Water Creek |
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| Sixth Water Creek |
Soon after the bridge, there is a split in the trail. Both trails may end up going to the same place, but we stayed to the right closer to the creek. This split also marks the half-way point to the springs.
As you continue up the trail next the Fifth Water Creek, you will see lots of tiny falls and some pools of water. The water starts to look more and more blue as you continue up the trail.
The actual pools are pretty obvious when you reach them. They have been carefully sectioned off from one another. Some are hotter than others. Watch out for skinny dippers; skinny dipping here is illegal, but there are some who do it anyway.
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| Sectioned pools of hot water perfect for relaxing in |
At the end of the pools there is a waterfall. It is pretty easy to climb up under the waterfall if you want and stick your head out under it through the hole in the rocks. The water from the fall is cold, but the water in front of it and just to the side is very hot since the spring deposits water right to that area.
You can also hike up to the top of the waterfall and just a little ways further if you want. The trail does seem to connect to another one at its end, but it is a bit steep and slippery to get up to.
Leashed dogs are permitted on this trail, and there are vault toilets available at the trailhead. Please be considerate and respectful by not leaving trash on the trail or at the hot springs. If you pack it in, pack it out.
Directions
This trail is located near Spanish Fork in Utah County, Utah. To get there, take I-15 to US-6 in Spanish Fork. Get off at Exit 257 and continue to Diamond Fork Rd. Turn right and continue up this road for about 10 miles. The trailhead will be on the right. GPS Coordinates: N40 05.068 W111 21.311
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