A complete guide to visiting Blue Heart Springs
How to get there, the best activities, launch locations, kayak rentals, tours, and frequently asked questions.
What Is Blue Heart?
Blue Heart Springs is a hidden, spring-fed lagoon tucked into the basalt cliffs along the Snake River near Hagerman, Idaho. Known for its stunningly clear blue water and circular shape, Blue Heart is one of the most unique natural springs in Idaho. The spring is only accessible by boat, there are no roads or hiking trails that lead to it, making it a true off-the-grid destination. Located about 1.5 miles upstream from Banbury Adventures, Blue Heart sits in a calm cove that’s sheltered from wind and boat traffic, creating a peaceful experience for kayakers and paddle boarders.
What makes Blue Heart Springs even more remarkable is how it was formed. Water from the Eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer, a massive underground system stretching across southern Idaho, filters down through layers of volcanic rock for decades before bubbling up from the bottom of the spring. The consistent upwelling of cold, pressurized water keeps the pool crystal-clear and around 58°F year-round. Geologists believe the nearly perfect crater-like shape may have been caused by the collapse of a lava bubble or scouring from the ancient Bonneville Flood. Today, it remains one of Idaho’s most breathtaking natural wonders, drawing visitors seeking beauty, solitude, and adventure.
How Do You Get to
Blue Heart Springs?
Banbury Adventures is located just 10 miles outside of Hagerman, Idaho, along the beautiful Snake River and only 1.5 miles from Blue Heart Springs. The paddle to the springs takes approximately 30–45 minutes one way, making our location one of the most convenient launch points for visiting this incredible hidden oasis. Accessible only by water, Blue Heart Springs is known for its crystal-clear turquoise water, bubbling natural springs, and peaceful setting tucked away in the Snake River canyon.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing paddle or a fully guided adventure, we offer several ways to experience Blue Heart Springs. Bring your own kayak or paddleboard and purchase a launch parking pass for easy river access. If you don't have your own equipment, rent one of our kayaks or paddleboards and explore at your own pace. For those looking for a more guided experience, join one of our guided kayak tours, including our Adventure Snorkeling Tour, Sunset Tour, or Island Tour, or sit back and enjoy the scenery on our Scenic Pontoon Boat Tour. No matter how you choose to explore, you'll paddle through one of Idaho's most beautiful stretches of the Snake River, passing wildlife, and stunning canyon scenery before arriving at the unforgettable Blue Heart Springs.
Things to Do at
Blue Heart Springs
Swim and Snorkel
Blue Heart Springs is famous for its crystal-clear, spring-fed water, making it one of the best places in Idaho to swim and snorkel. The water remains around 58°F (14°C) year-round, offering a refreshing escape on hot summer days. Bring a mask and snorkel to explore the underwater springs, watch fish swim through the clear water, and experience the unique blue colors that give Blue Heart Springs its name. Wetsuits are recommended for longer swims and are included with our Adventure Tour.
Warm Up on the Rocks
After taking a dip in the cool spring water, relax on the sun-warmed basalt rocks surrounding Blue Heart Springs. These natural rock ledges are the perfect place to dry off, soak up the sunshine, enjoy a snack, or simply take in the peaceful scenery. Many visitors spend just as much time relaxing along the shoreline as they do in the water, making Blue Heart Springs the perfect place to slow down and enjoy Idaho's natural beauty.
Fishing
The Snake River around Blue Heart Springs offers excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year. Anglers may find bass, trout, whitefish, and the occasional giant white sturgeon in nearby stretches of the river. Whether you're casting from a kayak or fishing from your own boat, the calm water and beautiful surroundings make for an unforgettable day on the river. Be sure to follow all Idaho fishing regulations and seasonal requirements before heading out.
Birding & Wildlife
Blue Heart Springs is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, making it a favorite destination for bird watchers and nature lovers. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, osprey, great blue herons, kingfishers, hawks, ducks, geese, and other native birds that thrive along the Snake River. You may also spot some mink, beavers, muskrats, deer, raccoons, porcupines, coyotes on the banks and a variety of fish beneath the crystal-clear water. The quiet river corridor provides excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing throughout every season.
Frequently Asked Questions
01
How long does it take to paddle to Blue Heart Springs?
Blue Heart Springs is located 1.5 miles downriver from the Banbury Adventures launching dock. You can expect it to take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour to paddle each way.
02
Do I need a lifejacket?
The state of Idaho requires that a lifejacket be on board the watercraft, and accessible at all times for each individual. Additionally, anyone under the age of 14 must be wearing their life vest during the entire duration of operation. Lifejackets are provided at the dock.
03
How do I find Blue Heart?
Directions and information are provided upon request at the launching dock. Typically, there will be other water traffic to follow down making it hard to miss.
04
What is the temperature of the water?
This stretch of the Snake River can be expected to be around 45-70 degrees depending on the time of year and the weather for a given day. Blue Heart Springs water is 58 degrees.
05
Can I bring my pets?
You’re welcome to bring your pets! Pets are allowed on the grounds at Banbury Hot Springs and the river. Pets are not permitted in the pool area at Banbury Hot Springs.
06
How difficult is this stretch? Can my child manage the trip?
The trip from the Banbury Adventures dock to Blue Heart springs is a calm paddle downstream. You will not encounter any rapids or other conditions that would require more than a first-timers knowledge of kayaking. Guests of all ages have completed and enjoyed this stretch!
07
Can I launch my own watercraft from Banbury?
Yes! Private launches can be made by reservation on our website, through the phone, and at our physical location. Spots are limited so make sure to reserve in advance!
08
Do you operate year-round?
Rentals are available April-September with the exception of a few holidays and spring break. Additionally, rentals are only available during our business hours, Monday-Saturday 9 AM-8:30PM, light permitting.
09
Are there age requirements?
You must be 16 or older to rent from us, but there is no age limit for operating the watercraft. Lap sitting for children is allowed as long as addition of passengers doesn't exceed the watercraft weight limit found in description of rentals. Be aware that this may make it slightly more difficult to paddle/steer. For Pontoon Boat tours, children 2 and under ride free.
10
Do you charge cancellation fees?
Rentals can be cancelled 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Cancellations within 24 hours may be subject to a cancellation fee or full charge.