Three Forks Hike to Fifth Water Hot Springs

13 years ago – my husband (then boyfriend) and I went on a hike up to some hot pots one night while we were in college with a bunch of friends. Sadly we hadn’t been back to see what it looked like during the day until last month during a family reunion. We went on a hike up Three Forks Trail to the Fifth Water Hot Springs. It was amazing. I am so glad we went on it again and could share it with our four kids.

The hike was only about 2.4 miles (each way) and took about an hour (each way) to complete. You will want to plan on spending at least an hour (or several) at the hot springs. It is beautiful and relaxing – but beware of VERY hot water in certain places – so be careful with kids and pets.

Somethings to keep in mind – we took kids of every age on this hike but some parts are VERY narrow with steep drop-offs – so keep them close so you can help them and watch them. Have a good backpack that can carry a water bladder and take a lunch to eat at the top – my kids loved doing that. There is a restroom at the bottom, but none on the way or at the top. Wear good shoes. While the hike isn’t overly hard, there are a lot of ups and downs that would make it tough in flip flops. Take a towel to dry off with at the top if you plan on getting in the water. Oh – and don’t forget a camera 🙂

I hope you enjoy the visual journey that I captured. I can’t wait to go again – it would be beautiful in the fall.

Here is the map of where we parked at the Three Forks Trailhead and then the hike up to Fifth Water Hot Springs. You will go down Highway 6 between Spanish Fork and Helper. Turn at the Diamond Campground exit, then drive up to the Three Forks Trailhead. Use the map below to get your bearings.

It was a great way to spend a day with our family and pets are allowed on the trail so we took our dog. He loved it – especially being able to splash around in the water at the top. You can also bike the trail if you want.

I would love to hear about your trip if you went or any questions you might have – just ask in the comment section below.