WATER SAFETY ON THE SPRINGS
Plan ahead, gear up, and follow Idaho requirements so every visit to Blue Heart Springs is a safe one.
PADDLE SAFE, PADDLE SMART
Blue Heart Springs is reached by paddling a short stretch of the Snake River. The water is cold and clear, conditions change quickly, and motorized traffic shares the channel. A few simple precautions keep everyone safe.
IDAHO STATE REQUIREMENTS
- Carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket (PFD) for every person on board.
- Children 14 and under must wear a life jacket at all times while underway.
- Non-motorized vessels 10 feet and longer require an Idaho Invasive Species Sticker.
- Carry a sound-producing device such as a whistle to signal others.
- Operating any vessel under the influence is illegal in Idaho.
TIPS FOR EVERY CRAFT
Kayakers
Wear your PFD, dress for the cold water, and stay to the right of the channel away from motorized boats.
Paddleboarders
Use a leash, wear your PFD, and be aware that falls into cold spring water happen fast.
Canoers
Balance your load, keep three points of contact when moving, and pack PFDs within easy reach.
Boaters
Idle slowly near the springs, watch for swimmers and paddlers, and never enter the spring mouth under power.
BEFORE YOU LAUNCH CHECKLIST
- A properly fitted life jacket for everyone aboard.
- A whistle or other sound-producing device.
- Weather and water temperature checked in advance.
- A float plan shared with someone on shore.
Questions about visiting safely?
Reach out to our team and we'll help you plan a safe trip to the springs.