At 165°F, the source water at Bell Island Hot Springs 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.
Bell Island Hot Springs discharge at an impressive 165 degrees Fahrenheit from the Cleveland Peninsula north of Ketchikan, emerging just 50 feet above sea level. The springs maintain water temperatures 121.9 degrees above the cool maritime air, creating dramatic thermal contrast in the complex fjord landscape.
The springs flow from Tongass National Forest slopes into the Behm Canal area, producing slightly alkaline water with pH 8.4 and elevated mineral content at 674 milligrams per liter total dissolved solids. Notable minerals include sodium at 200 milligrams per liter and chloride at 200 milligrams per liter, giving the water distinctive chemistry. Steam plumes rise dramatically from the thermal features into air averaging 43.1 degrees Fahrenheit where fjord walls frame the scene.
History of Bell Island Hot Springs
Bell Island Hot Springs reflect tectonic heating processes active throughout Southeast Alaska's coastal ranges. The groundwater circulates deep beneath the Cleveland Peninsula, returning to the surface as the spring emerges along fracture systems in the Tongass landscape.
Hiking access of 4.5 miles reaches the springs from nearby coastal areas. The Blind Pass Cabin, 7.2 kilometers away via boat or float plane, provides base camp. Year-round access is possible but winter increases travel difficulty. The site remains open to public use under forest service management allowing extractive and recreational activities.
Is Bell Island Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Bell Island Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
30°Jan
29°Feb
34°Mar
40°Apr
49°May
54°Jun
59°Jul
59°Aug
54°Sep
44°Oct
35°Nov
30°Dec
Annual Precip: 133.3 inAnnual Snow: 308.7 in
Best Time to Visit
FebruaryAir 29°F · Water 165°F · +136° contrast
JanuaryAir 30°F · Water 165°F · +135° contrast
DecemberAir 30°F · Water 165°F · +135° contrast
February offers 30°F more contrast than August
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
165.2°F
(74.0°C)Measured Jul 06, 1976
Water ChemistrySampled 1976-07-06
The water at Bell Island Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.4) with 674 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Blind Pass Cabin sits on the northwest shore of Hassler Island, on Blind Pass. This secluded retreat is open year-round and makes an ideal base camp for exploring
the various bays and inlets in the northern Behm Canal area.
The site can be accessed by float plane, boat or kayak, depending on conditions. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring
several of their own amenities.Recreation
The area is noted for king salmon runs into the Unuk R...
What is the water temperature at Bell Island Hot Springs?
Bell Island Hot Springs has a water temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Bell Island Hot Springs located?
Bell Island Hot Springs is located in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska at 50 feet elevation, near Ketchikan. Coordinates: 55.9330°N, 131.5590°W.
How do I get to Bell Island Hot Springs?
Bell Island Hot Springs has Hike road access (4.4 mi from the road).
Is Bell Island Hot Springs free to visit?
Bell Island Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Bell Island Hot Springs?
Yes, Blind Pass Cabin is located nearby (4.5 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Bell Island Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.4 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 674 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Bell Island Hot Springs?
The water at Bell Island Hot Springs reaches 165°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 Bell Island Hot Springs crowded?
Bell Island Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Bell Island Hot Springs?
Essentials for Bell Island Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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
165°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp165°F (74°C)
Avg Air Temp43°F
Above Ambient+122°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessHike
Distance to Road4.4 mi
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyUS Forest Service
DesignationNational Forest
UnitTongass National Forest
ManagerUS Forest Service
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use