At 198°F, the source water at Bailey Hot Spring is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
Bailey Hot Spring discharges at a scalding 198 degrees Fahrenheit from the remote Tongass National Forest, maintaining temperatures 156.7 degrees above the cool maritime air. The spring emerges in one of the wettest environments in temperate North America, receiving over 133 inches of annual precipitation.
The spring flows from forested slopes at just 450 feet elevation, creating dramatic steam plumes visible from distance in the cool rainforest air. The composition includes notable sodium at 89 milligrams per liter and sulfate at 43 milligrams per liter, producing slightly alkaline water with pH 8.2. The forest canopy frames the thermal feature in dense vegetation characteristic of Southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest.
History of Bailey Hot Spring
Bailey Hot Spring formed through the same tectonic processes that shape the wider Tongass region. The groundwater circulates deep beneath the Cleveland Peninsula, heating through geothermal gradient before emerging at the surface where it meets cooler surface conditions.
Access requires backcountry travel more than 8 miles from the nearest road. Float plane or boat reaches the general area, followed by demanding trail travel. The nearby Reflection Lake Cabin provides base camp options. Year-round access is possible but winter conditions increase difficulty significantly.
Is Bailey Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Backpacking adventures
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Day trips with young children
Bailey Hot Spring rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
27°Jan
29°Feb
32°Mar
38°Apr
46°May
53°Jun
57°Jul
58°Aug
52°Sep
42°Oct
33°Nov
28°Dec
Annual Precip: 133.7 inAnnual Snow: 310.6 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 27°F · Water 198°F · +171° contrast
DecemberAir 28°F · Water 198°F · +170° contrast
FebruaryAir 29°F · Water 198°F · +169° contrast
January offers 31°F more contrast than August
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
194.0°F
(90.0°C)Measured Jul 07, 1976
Water ChemistrySampled 1976-07-07
The water at Bailey Hot Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 8.2) with 413 mg/L total dissolved solids.
Overview
Reflection Lake Cabin is situated on the Cleveland Peninsula at the shore of Reflection Lake approximately 50 air miles from Ketchikan. The cabin is available year-round and makes an
excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska with its recreation options, beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.
The cabin is remote and accessible only by float plane or boat, depending on conditions. Boats can be moored in Short Bay, and visitors can hike 2.3 miles to the cabin along the...
What is the water temperature at Bailey Hot Spring?
Bailey Hot Spring has a water temperature of 198°F (92°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Bailey Hot Spring located?
Bailey Hot Spring is located in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska at 450 feet elevation, near Ketchikan. Coordinates: 55.9830°N, 131.6610°W.
How do I get to Bailey Hot Spring?
Bailey Hot Spring has Backcountry road access (8.2 mi from the road).
Is Bailey Hot Spring free to visit?
Bailey Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Bailey Hot Spring?
Yes, Reflection Lake Cabin is located nearby (4.1 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Bailey Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.2 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 413 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Bailey Hot Spring?
The water at Bailey Hot Spring reaches 198°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Bailey Hot Spring crowded?
Bailey Hot Spring requires a hike or off-road travel, which naturally limits crowds. You'll generally find fewer visitors on weekdays and outside peak season.
What should I bring to Bailey Hot Spring?
Essentials for Bailey Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sturdy footwear for the approach, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.
Temperature
198°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp198°F (92°C)
Avg Air Temp41°F
Above Ambient+157°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessBackcountry
Distance to Road8.2 mi
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyUS Forest Service
DesignationNational Forest
UnitTongass National Forest
ManagerUS Forest Service
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use