Some of the hot springs have recorded histories of over 100 years. Burgdorf Hot Springs was used by trappers, etc., as far back as 1862. Dansart et al. (1994) reported that Heise Hot Springs has been using geothermal water for recreation purposes since the late 1800's. Dellinger et al. (1982) reported that Guyer Hot Springs near Ketchum has been used for heating homes, businesses, and a commercial hot springs since the late 1800's.
In 1890 and 1891, the Boise Water Works Company completed two geothermal wells in an area east of Boise. Within a couple years, the nations first district heating system was birthed. Geothermal water was put to use along Warm Springs Road to heat over 200 buildings including homes, businesses,
and the Boise Natatorium, a 65 by 125 foot swimming pool.
Commercial geothermal spas have been around in Idaho for since near the beginning of the 20th century. Resorts that have been in business for over 75 years...
The Hailey Hot Springs were used to heat the Hiawatha Hotel from about 1919 until 1979 when it was destroyed by fire (Eastlake and McClain, 1979; 1980). In 1982, Dellinger et al. reported that the Guyer Hot Springs near Ketchum had been used at a nearby hot springs resort since the turn of the 20th century; the current status of this resort is unknown.