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Diamond Fork (Fifth Water) Hot Springs

Utah County, Utah

4.3/5
based on 19 reviews

Details

Distance

4.63 miles

Elevation Gain

663 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jacob Moon

This up to 10 mile round trip hike (during the winter due to road closure) leads past 3 scenic waterfalls to Diamond Fork's natural pools. Try to get to the springs early if you want a smaller crowd – be ready for nude bathers.

When you hike out to Diamond Fork aka Fifth Water hot springs, get ready for an amazing experience! The lower fall is visible from the main pool. If you want to continue to go further up the creek, you will run into the second fall, which is the most photogenic of them all. There are also two pools en route to the second fall. If you choose to continue a bit further, you’ll run into the last waterfall.

While in the pools, you can move around to different parts of the pool to adjust the temperature. The water in the pools is clean, but does have a slight stench of sulfur. Legally, you’re not supposed to take a soak in the nude, but be aware that some people go for it.

During the winter this is a great spot to head to. The snow is usually pretty packed down, so you won’t need snowshoes to make it to the hot springs. Keep in mind that you will need a 4x4 to get to the trailhead.

It can be accessed: get off on the state route 6 EAST towards Price, UT from I-15. Following this road until a turn off, on the left hand side called Diamond Fork Road. Travel about 11 miles to get the the trailhead.

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Features

Hiking
Hot Springs
Waterfall

Reviews

I was inspired to visit here as a drone photographer in the fall because of the Milky blue water and fall foliage colors. It did not disappoint. There are numerous hot pools to soak in and it was simply beautiful

The trail is closed, I don’t know if it’s due to COVID-19 but there’s a lot of signs posted. There were quite a few cars parked and people returning from the springs regardless. We spoke to two of them and they told us the springs are gorgeous and it’s worth taking the risk.

Is the road to the trailhead closed right now due to the snow???

Great place, nice hiking and beautiful hot spring

Why does the article say nudity is illegal up there. It's federal land. As long as your just nude there should be no problem.

It can get very crowded during the spring and fall so get there early if you want a parking spot and a place in the hot springs.

I just did this hike twice in one week. The first time I hiked by foot the whole time, no snow shoes, and it was definitely worth the almost 14 mile hike! Three days later I rented a snowmobile and did the part of the closed road on it, then parked it and continued the trail head by foot. Again, totally worth it! I definitely recommend it, especially in the winter. They're way easier to reach in the summer (just the 2.5 mile hike in since the road isn't closed) but I think I'd still prefer them in the winter, since its way less crowded.

I went five days ago and the gate was closed. It took me an hour and a half to get to the trailhead from the gate. 6 hours round-trip including the time at the pool. I'd probably consider my pace faster than the average hiker. Anyway, it was beautiful, especially with all the snow! We only ran into two other couples so it felt private and secluded. Definitely worth the time and effort if you're up for it.

Easy to reach hot springs are always going to be more crowded than one might like. Diamond Fork offers many soaking areas so you can change up who you are sitting by or find a little spot on your own. Pretty, easy hike in makes this a great day trip for the whole family. Bring plenty of water.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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