The path to Fifth Water Hot Springs in February is not an easy one if you haven’t experienced hiking through heavy snow/ice. The trail was covered and slick, with a drop down to the creek. When we came up to a steep hill, I slipped to the edge, looking down at the water 12 feet below me. My heart rushed and I almost called off the hike and turned around. I found a few pockets of ice to put my knees, then pulled my way to the top of the hill. We made it, but I was scared for what was next. A group of women JOGGED passed us with their spiked shoes. I was pretty envious of them not slipping around like me, but relieved thinking it couldn’t get much worse. Not too long after, with too many supplies in hand, Matt almost plummeted down into the creek losing our gear. It was a close call, and I felt bad knowing the hike was my idea.  At this point we were feeling really discouraged for not being prepared for this icy trek. We courageously (or stupidly) decided we weren’t going to give up, and kept hiking towards the springs. We finally got to a flat pathway. I took a big breath of air as the sun warmed my face. I felt better. Things got a bit easier after we learned what we could and couldn’t do on the ice. I purposely sat down and slid when it got too slick, and Matt crafted me a big pointy stick to slam down Gandalf style when I started to fall. We finally made it to the springs, happy we weren’t (too) hurt. We definitely brought some bruises with us. I DON’T ADVISE YOU TO DO THIS TRIP WITHOUT WEARING SPIKES/CHAINS* – in the winter months.

I did take away some valuable lessons from that day. The women jogging passed reminded me of how sometimes people make things look easy, while you’re struggling to get by. We often overlook advice and feel like an idiot afterwards (at least I have, haha). That doesn’t mean you can’t pick yourself up, learn from your mistakes, adapt, and continue.  This was an unforgettable episode of our live’s, and I’m grateful we were able to take home memories we’ll never forget. 

The Hike – Make sure you have ice equipment (chains for shoes or ski poles) in the winter! We wouldn’t do it again without them. We started our hike around 9am from the road gate, which was closed (it’s closed in the winter months). You’ll eventually get to the Three Forks trail head, and travel along the creek until you get to the springs. There are a lot of hilly spots, with railings only in a few areas. Also be aware of any wild animal activity. The trail is well traveled most days, but not all. Round trip is a little over 7.5 miles with the road being closed. We stayed in an Airbnb in Orem, UT the night before, but the closest town with hotels is Spanish Fork, UT.

Remember to leave your worries in the hot springs, but not trash!

Best of luck & be safe!

Marissa