Alaska is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and one of its most unique and alluring attractions is its numerous hot springs. Scattered throughout the state, these geothermal wonders offer a chance to relax, rejuvenate, and connect with nature in a truly unforgettable way. From developed resorts to remote, wilderness destinations, Alaska’s hot springs cater to a wide range of interests and adventure levels. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the best hot springs Alaska has to offer, covering their temperatures, access difficulty, etiquette, and how to combine them with other exciting activities like aurora viewing and exploring the state’s fascinating geology.
Developed Hot Springs
For those seeking a more comfortable and convenient hot springs experience, Alaska has several developed options that offer a range of amenities and services.
Chena Hot Springs Resort
Located at mile 56.5 of the Chena Hot Springs Road, about an hour’s drive from Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs Resort is one of Alaska’s most popular and accessible hot springs destinations. Open year-round, the resort features both indoor and outdoor hot springs, with temperatures ranging from 106°F to 109°F (41°C to 43°C). Visitors can soak in the warm waters while taking in the stunning surroundings, and during the winter months, the resort offers unparalleled aurora viewing opportunities. The on-site ice museum and sculptures are another unique attraction, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of local ice sculptors. With an admission fee of $15, Chena Hot Springs Resort is an affordable and enjoyable destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The GPS coordinates for the resort are 65.0531N 146.0563W.
Semi-Developed Hot Springs
For those looking for a more rustic and off-the-beaten-path experience, Alaska’s semi-developed hot springs offer a great compromise between accessibility and wilderness adventure.
Manley Hot Springs
Located at the end of the Elliott Highway, Manley Hot Springs is a scenic destination that offers a chance to soak in natural hot springs surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. The hot springs are situated near the Tolovana River, and visitors can access them via a short hike or by driving to the nearby campground. With temperatures ranging from 104°F to 107°F (40°C to 42°C), Manley Hot Springs is an ideal spot to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of exploring.
Tolovana Hot Springs
Tolovana Hot Springs is another semi-developed destination, located about 11 miles from the Elliott Highway via a trail or snowmachine route. The hot springs feature three tubs, and reservations are recommended to ensure availability. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Tolovana Hot Springs offers a unique and secluded experience, with temperatures ranging from 100°F to 104°F (38°C to 40°C). Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take in the stunning views, and spot local wildlife like moose and caribou.
Tenakee Springs
Located on Chichagof Island, Tenakee Springs is a scenic destination that can be accessed via a ferry from Juneau. With no roads on the island, visitors must hike or take a guided tour to reach the hot springs, which feature temperatures ranging from 102°F to 105°F (39°C to 41°C). The hot springs are situated in a picturesque valley, surrounded by towering trees and stunning mountain vistas. Tenakee Springs is an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a truly remote and wilderness experience.
Remote Hot Springs
For the truly adventurous, Alaska’s remote hot springs offer a chance to experience the state’s untouched wilderness and unparalleled natural beauty.
Serpentine Hot Springs
Located in the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, Serpentine Hot Springs is a remote destination that requires a significant amount of planning and effort to reach. Accessible via a challenging hike or by snowmachine, the hot springs feature temperatures ranging from 100°F to 104°F (38°C to 40°C). The surrounding landscape is characterized by stunning tundra vistas, and visitors can spot local wildlife like grizzly bears and caribou. With its unique geology and untouched wilderness, Serpentine Hot Springs is an ideal destination for experienced adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Pilgrim Hot Springs
Located near Nome, Pilgrim Hot Springs is a remote destination that offers a chance to soak in natural hot springs surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. The hot springs feature temperatures ranging from 104°F to 107°F (40°C to 42°C), and visitors can access them via a challenging hike or by taking a guided tour. The surrounding area is rich in gold rush history, and visitors can explore the remnants of old mining camps and cabins.
Baranof Hot Springs
Located on Baranof Island, Baranof Hot Springs is a remote destination that can be accessed via a boat ride from Sitka. The hot springs feature temperatures ranging from 100°F to 104°F (38°C to 40°C), and visitors can soak in the warm waters while taking in the stunning surroundings. The surrounding area is characterized by lush forests, and visitors can spot local wildlife like bears and eagles.
Chief Shakes Hot Springs
Located near Wrangell, Chief Shakes Hot Springs is a remote destination that offers a chance to soak in natural hot springs surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. The hot springs feature temperatures ranging from 102°F to 105°F (39°C to 41°C), and visitors can access them via a challenging hike or by taking a guided tour. The surrounding area is rich in Native American history, and visitors can explore the remnants of old villages and cultural sites.
Goddard Hot Springs
Located near Sitka, Goddard Hot Springs is a remote destination that offers a chance to soak in natural hot springs surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. The hot springs feature temperatures ranging from 100°F to 104°F (38°C to 40°C), and visitors can access them via a challenging hike or by taking a guided tour. The surrounding area is characterized by lush forests, and visitors can spot local wildlife like bears and eagles.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Alaska’s hot springs depends on the specific location and the type of experience you’re looking for. For developed hot springs like Chena Hot Springs Resort, the best time to visit is during the winter months (December to March) for aurora viewing, or during the summer months (June to August) for warmer weather and longer days. For semi-developed and remote hot springs, the best time to visit is during the summer months, when the weather is warmer and the access routes are more accessible.
Gear List
When visiting Alaska’s hot springs, it’s essential to pack the right gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a list of essentials to include:
- Swimwear and towels
- Warm clothing and layers for colder weather
- Waterproof bags and containers for electronics and gear
- First aid kit and emergency supplies
- Map and compass or GPS device
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Food and water for the duration of your trip
- Camping gear, if planning to camp overnight
Safety Tips
When visiting Alaska’s hot springs, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Always check the temperature of the hot springs before entering, as they can be extremely hot
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for signs of potential hazards, such as slippery rocks or fast-moving water
- Never soak in hot springs alone, and always bring a buddy or group
- Be respectful of the natural environment and other visitors, and follow any rules or regulations posted at the hot springs
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and bring warm clothing and layers
- Always follow bear safety guidelines, and be aware of the presence of wildlife in the area
Getting There
Getting to Alaska’s hot springs can be a challenging and adventurous experience, depending on the location. Here are some general tips and guidelines for getting to each of the hot springs mentioned in this guide:
- Chena Hot Springs Resort: located at mile 56.5 of the Chena Hot Springs Road, about an hour’s drive from Fairbanks
- Manley Hot Springs: located at the end of the Elliott Highway, about a 2-hour drive from Fairbanks
- Tolovana Hot Springs: located about 11 miles from the Elliott Highway via a trail or snowmachine route
- Tenakee Springs: located on Chichagof Island, accessible via a ferry from Juneau
- Serpentine Hot Springs: located in the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, accessible via a challenging hike or snowmachine route
- Pilgrim Hot Springs: located near Nome, accessible via a challenging hike or guided tour
- Baranof Hot Springs: located on Baranof Island, accessible via a boat ride from Sitka
- Chief Shakes Hot Springs: located near Wrangell, accessible via a challenging hike or guided tour
- Goddard Hot Springs: located near Sitka, accessible via a challenging hike or guided tour
Costs & Permits
The costs and permits required for visiting Alaska’s hot springs vary depending on the location and type of experience. Here are some general guidelines:
- Chena Hot Springs Resort: $15 admission fee, with discounts for seniors, military, and students
- Manley Hot Springs: free admission, but camping fees apply for overnight stays
- Tolovana Hot Springs: $10 admission fee, with reservations recommended
- Tenakee Springs: free admission, but ferry fees apply for transportation to Chichagof Island
- Serpentine Hot Springs: free admission, but permits required for camping and hiking in the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve
- Pilgrim Hot Springs: free admission, but guided tour fees apply for transportation and guiding services
- Baranof Hot Springs: free admission, but boat fees apply for transportation to Baranof Island
- Chief Shakes Hot Springs: free admission, but guided tour fees apply for transportation and guiding services
- Goddard Hot Springs: free admission, but guided tour fees apply for transportation and guiding services
For more information on fishing and hunting regulations in Alaska, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.