For statistical purposes, the United States Census Bureau has defined Foots Creek as a census-designated place (CDP). The census definition of the area may not precisely correspond to local understanding of the area with the same name. As of the 2010 Census, the population was 799.[6]
The community "has been known as 'Bolt' since pioneer days." The stream takes its name from O. G. Foot, a miner who prospected along the stream in the 19th century. A post office named Foots Creek had a brief existence in this vicinity in 1878–79. Silas Draper was the postmaster.[7]