Fifth Water Hot Springs, also known as Diamond Fork Hot Springs, is one of the most popular natural hot springs in Utah. Located in the scenic Diamond Fork Canyon near the town of Spanish Fork, the springs are surrounded by cliffs, waterfalls, and rugged mountain landscapes.
The hot springs consist of several natural soaking pools with bright blue mineral water, created by geothermal springs flowing down the canyon. Because the springs are reached by a short hike, they offer a rewarding mix of outdoor adventure and relaxing natural soaking.
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What Should You Know going to Fifth Water Hot Springs
At Fifth Water Hot Springs, visitors will find several natural rock soaking pools built along a small creek in Diamond Fork Canyon. The pools are famous for their milky blue and turquoise mineral water, creating one of the most visually striking hot spring settings in Utah.
At the source, the geothermal water emerges at around 111°F (44°C), but as it flows through the pools it cools to more comfortable soaking temperatures. Many pools sit around 102°F (39°C), while others are cooler depending on their distance from the source. As the water continues downstream, the temperature gradually drops, allowing visitors to choose a pool that feels most comfortable.
One of the most unique features of the area is a small hot spring waterfall, where warm mineral water cascades over rocks into the pools below. Visitors can even stand under the waterfall, creating a fun and memorable soaking experience.
The mineral water contains sulfur, which gives the water a subtle smell but is also known for its benefits for skin and relaxation.
Because Fifth Water Hot Springs is one of the most popular hot springs in Utah, it can become crowded, especially on weekends. Visiting on weekdays or early in the morning is the best way to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Dogs are allowed on the trail and at the springs but must remain on a leash. Visitors should also avoid bringing glass bottles, as broken glass can sometimes appear near the pools. Wearing sandals or water shoes between pools can also be helpful. Bathrooms are available at the trailhead, and visitors are encouraged to pack out their trash to help protect the area.
How to Get to Fifth Water Hot Springs
Getting to Fifth Water Hot Springs is relatively easy and begins at the Fifth Water Hot Springs Trailhead on Diamond Fork Road, about 1 hour and 30 minutes south of Salt Lake City near the town of Spanish Fork. The trailhead offers free parking and restroom facilities, making it a convenient starting point for the hike.
From Salt Lake City, drive south on I-15 and take Exit 257A toward US-6 East (Price/Manti). After a few miles, turn left onto Diamond Fork Road (Forest Road 029) and follow it for about 11 miles until you reach the Fifth Water Hot Springs Trailhead, where the hike begins.
From the trailhead, visitors must complete a 2.5-mile hike (about 4 km) one way, for a total of 5 miles round trip. The trail gains roughly 700 feet of elevation and is considered moderate in difficulty. The path follows Sixth Water Creek, passing through scenic canyon terrain.
Along the trail, ignore the first footbridge and continue hiking until you reach the second bridge, about 1 mile into the hike, where Sixth Water Creek meets Fifth Water Creek. Cross the bridge and continue following the trail for another mile. As you approach the springs, you may notice the distinct sulfur smell from the geothermal water.
The first hot spring pools will appear on the right side of the trail, with additional pools and a small hot spring waterfall located farther upstream.
During winter months, the road to the trailhead is usually accessible, but heavy snowstorms can occasionally cause the Forest Service to close the final section of the road.
Best Time to Visit Fifth Water Hot Springs
The best time to visit Fifth Water Hot Springs is during spring and fall, when temperatures in Utah’s Diamond Fork Canyon are comfortable for hiking and soaking. During these seasons, the trail conditions are usually good and the surrounding canyon scenery is especially beautiful.
Summer is also a popular time to visit, but temperatures in the canyon can become quite warm during the day. If visiting in summer, it’s best to start the hike early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat.
Winter offers a unique experience, as the surrounding landscape can be covered in snow while the hot spring pools remain warm.
Because Fifth Water Hot Springs is one of the most popular hot springs in Utah, weekends can become crowded. Visiting on weekdays or early in the morning is the best way to enjoy a quieter and more relaxing experience.
Opening Hours & Entry Costs
Fifth Water Hot Springs is located on public land within Diamond Fork Canyon, and the springs themselves are open year-round. There are no official opening hours, and visitors can access the trail and hot spring pools at any time of day.
Access to the springs requires hiking from the Fifth Water Hot Springs Trailhead , and there is no entrance fee for visiting the hot springs. Parking at the trailhead is generally free, and basic facilities such as restrooms are available at the starting point of the trail.
Because the springs are located in a natural setting without on-site staff or services, visitors should come prepared and respect the area. It’s important to pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect this popular natural site.
Where to Stay nearby Fifth Water Hot Springs
Since Fifth Water Hot Springs is located in Diamond Fork Canyon without any lodging directly at the trailhead, most visitors choose to stay in Salt Lake City, about one hour and 30 minutes away by car. As the largest city in Utah, Salt Lake City offers a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, and travel services, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.
Staying in the city allows travelers to visit the hot springs as an easy day trip, while also enjoying everything the city has to offer, including restaurants, cultural attractions, and access to other outdoor destinations in the surrounding mountains.
Recommended Stays nearby Fifth Water Hot Springs
Little America Hotel – Salt Lake City
A well-known hotel located in downtown Salt Lake City, offering spacious rooms, comfortable amenities, and convenient parking. Little America Hotel is a popular choice for travelers who want a reliable and comfortable stay while exploring Utah’s outdoor destinations, including Fifth Water Hot Springs.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown
A modern hotel in the heart of Salt Lake City, offering spacious suites with separate living areas, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to restaurants and city attractions. SpringHill Suites works well as a comfortable base for visitors planning a day trip to Fifth Water Hot Springs.
You can explore more accommodation options in the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Fifth Water Hot Springs
After visiting Fifth Water Hot Springs, travelers can explore several natural and cultural attractions in the Salt Lake City region. One of the most popular places nearby is the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. The lake is famous for its dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and spectacular sunsets, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers and photographers.
A great way to experience the area is through a guided sunset wildlife tour at the Great Salt Lake, where visitors can explore the surrounding wetlands, observe local wildlife, and enjoy the unique colors of the lake as the sun sets over the water.
Another interesting place to visit is Antelope Island State Park, located within the Great Salt Lake. The island offers scenic hiking trails, panoramic lake views, and the chance to see free-roaming bison and other wildlife.
Visitors can also explore downtown Salt Lake City, where attractions such as Temple Square, museums, restaurants, and historic buildings provide a great contrast to the outdoor adventure of visiting the hot springs.
Other Springs nearby Fifth Water Hot Springs
If you want to explore more geothermal spots in Northern Utah, there are several other hot springs not far from Fifth Water Hot Springs.
One of the closest is Inlet Park Hot Springs, located near Utah Lake. These small natural pools sit close to the shoreline and offer a simple soaking experience with views of the surrounding mountains.
Another interesting destination is Homestead Crater Hot Springs in Midway. This unique geothermal spring is located inside a 40-foot limestone dome, where visitors can swim or soak in warm mineral water inside a natural underground cavern.
You can also visit Crystal Hot Springs in Honeyville, one of the most developed hot spring resorts in Utah. The property features multiple mineral pools with different temperatures, making it a popular destination for relaxing soaking experiences.