Fifth Water Hot Springs

Have you ever been to natural hot springs? I hadn't. I had been meaning to experience them for quite some time. All of my efforts through the years, however, had failed up until this particular hike. The Fifth Water Hot Springs in Spanish Fork, Utah, were worth the trip.

It was a cool spring day when I went. It was also during the middle of the week, so I didn't expect to see many others up there. I was sorely mistaken.

I guess they are pretty popular hot springs despite the hour hike to get there. There is parking near the Diamond Fork Arch. There are plenty of signs saying to not park on the side of the road. The side of the road was packed with cars when I arrived though. I guess it's not strictly enforced.

Upon exiting your car, simply follow the clearly marked trail for around an hour until you begin to see the masses of people. The hike itself is well-kept, going slightly uphill. I didn't strain myself at all on the path.

When you see the masses of people, you'll know you've arrived. There are two main areas of hot springs. The first you come across is clearly manmade. The second, a little further up, appears to be more natural.

The water is hot. Just as you'd expect. It also smells terrible. So, if you can handle the smell, more power to you. Just above both of these two hot spring pools is a small waterfall. The trail continues past that if you feel the need to hike a little further. I only ventured a short way past the waterfall, so I don't have any helpful tips for the rest of the hike.

All in all, I enjoyed the experience of taking a dip in a natural hot spring and the Fifth Water Hot Springs in Spanish Fork, Utah, enabled that. I can see where it gets its name, though.