16 miles. 3 Chiwawas.

Fifth water hot springs are some of the most beautiful and relaxing hot springs here in Utah. They make a great summer OR winter get away. The only downfall of going in the winter is the 16 mile loop that is included. Because of the amount of snowfall that this canyon gets, they close up the road. To reach the trail head, one has to hike in about 5 miles on the snow covered road and then complete the small hike to the springs.

My friend Camille and I decided to attempt this hike last minute about an hour before it started getting dark. Of course, we were not prepared in appropriate hiking clothes or shoes. Oh well. We jibber jabbered as we hiked the first 6 or so miles before we started feeling that we had missed the trail head. We decided to pray and immediately after Camille received the impression from the Holy Ghost that we should turn back. It was super dark at this point and we were more than tired. Hiking in the snow isn't easy! Happy that we got an answer, but also bummed that we weren't going to make it to the springs, we headed back.

About a mile and a half into our path back, we spotted the trail head! A man happened to be riding his bike out of the trail at the exact same time that we were passing it. We chatted a bit and he urged us to keep going! "It is so worth it!", he said. His pump up talk gave us the excitement and motivation to continue. 

We got to the springs at about 10:30pm. They were lovely and we felt more than accomplished. Within a few short minutes of soaking in the natural hot pool, we met some new friends.

 Friend #1: Luis

Friend #2: Dog 1

Friend #3: Dog 2

Friend#4: Dog 3

 We may not have been able to walk the next day, but this adventure was proof of 3 things. 

#1. God hears and answers prayers. No matter how small and insignificant they may be

#2. You can make friends wherever your spontaneous steps may lead you

#3. Relaxing in beautiful hot springs is always worth the trip. Even if it is 16 miles.

 

xoxo

Morgan