Warm Springs Park & Preserve

A Glimpse into History

At the base of Bald Mountain, where the Big Wood River meets Warm Springs Creek, lies a space with a fascinating past. Warm Springs Park & Preserve wasn't always what it is today - it started its modern life as a golf course before the City of Ketchum purchased it in 2022, investing $8 million to transform this 65-acre area into a public space.

But the story goes much deeper. Early 20th century visitors flocked here for a very different reason: the natural hot springs that bubbled up from the earth were believed to heal all sorts of ailments. And they weren't the first to discover this natural wonder - indigenous peoples had been coming to these springs for generations, seeking their healing powers long before maps had names for this place.

What You'll Find Here

Today, Warm Springs offers recreation space that combines natural elements with basic amenities. Sprawling grassy fields invite impromptu frisbee games or picnics, while clusters of mature deciduous trees offer welcome shade on sunny afternoons.

The preserve unfolds across three distinct areas: the Northern Entrance & Tennis Courts welcomes you in, the central Open Park area provides room to roam, and the Southern Entrance & Playground rounds out your visit with family-friendly fun. Each section maintains the park's natural character while offering different ways to enjoy your time here.

If you're up for a short climb, there's a viewpoint area atop a gentle hill with benches and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Exploring the Trails

The preserve's walking trails offer a more rustic experience than you might find at more manicured parks. You'll notice these paths tend to be narrow and sometimes embrace their wild side with natural growth along the edges. This isn't neglect - it's intentional, reflecting the preserve's mission to prioritize native habitat over perfectly trimmed walkways.

Keep in mind that some trails might pose challenges if you're bringing along small dogs or have mobility concerns. The creek creates natural divisions in the trail system, which might limit access to certain areas depending on conditions.

Environmental Heart

At its core, Warm Springs is committed to environmental stewardship. Ongoing restoration efforts aim to revitalize the creek's natural functions, create better homes for wildlife, and reduce flooding risks for neighboring properties.

Look closely and you'll spot native buckwheat plants throughout the preserve - these aren't just pretty additions to the landscape. When flowering, they provide crucial food for native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Later, their seeds become vital nourishment for local birds and small mammals, highlighting the preserve's role in supporting the local ecosystem.

The master plan guiding this special place emphasizes water conservation, habitat restoration, and open space preservation. Behind the scenes, management teams work to address invasive species like Tamarisk bush and non-native grasses that threaten the canyon's natural balance.