Chief Shakes Hot Springs discharge at 122 degrees Fahrenheit from the banks of the Stikine River at just 50 feet elevation within the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness. The springs produce thermal waters 81.6 degrees above ambient temperature, maintaining the thermal distinction in this remote wilderness managed by the US Forest Service within the Tongass National Forest.
The springs emerge from mountainous terrain where the Stikine River winds through the wilderness at low elevation. The mineral-rich water contains sulfate at 140 milligrams per liter, the dominant anion, with calcium at 15 milligrams per liter and sodium at 73 milligrams per liter. The landscape presents dramatic Stikine-LeConte Wilderness views, with steep river banks and old-growth forest framing the thermal feature accessible from water.
History of Chief Shakes Hot Springs
Chief Shakes Hot Springs reflect regional geothermal activity along the Stikine River corridor. The nearby Shakes Slough cabin complex indicates the importance of these thermal features to historical and contemporary settlement patterns in this remote wilderness area.
Floatplane or shallow-draft boat access only—more than 16 miles from the nearest road. The Stikine River tide flats require tides of at least 14 feet for safe boat navigation. Shakes Slough cabins nearby provide base camp facilities. The Stikine River paddling corridor offers scenic approach routes. Summer provides most stable access; winter conditions increase difficulty significantly.
Is Chief Shakes Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Backpacking adventures
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Day trips with young children
Chief Shakes Hot Springs rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Annual Precip: 136.0 in
Annual Snow: 527.6 in
January
Air 25°F · Water 122°F · +97° contrast
December
Air 26°F · Water 122°F · +97° contrast
February
Air 27°F · Water 122°F · +95° contrast
January offers 33°F more contrast than August
Recent Temperature
122.9°F
(50.5°C)
Measured Jul 07, 1976
The water at Chief Shakes Hot Springs is neutral (pH 7.1) with 409 mg/L total dissolved solids.
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Overview
Shakes Slough 2 Cabin makes an excellent basecamp for exploring the Stikine River. It is located at the confluence of the Stikine River and Shakes Slough and within a few hundred feet of neighboring Shakes Slough 1 Cabin. These cabins offer spectacular views of the surrounding Stikine-LeConte Wilderness.
The site can be accessed by float plane or shallow draft boat, depending on conditions. A tide of at least 14 feet is required to navigate the Stikine River tide flats. Guests are...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Sturdy footwear
Trail or off-road approach
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Shakes Slough 2 Cabin
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
5 miles from Wrangell, AK
USGS Quad: (PETERSBURG (C-1) 15) · PP 492: 73.0 · Circ 790: 26.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: PETERSBURG
What is the water temperature at Chief Shakes Hot Springs?
Chief Shakes Hot Springs has a water temperature of 122°F (50°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Chief Shakes Hot Springs located?
Chief Shakes Hot Springs is located in City and Borough of Wrangell, Alaska at 50 feet elevation, near Wrangell. Coordinates: 56.7170°N, 132.0050°W.
How do I get to Chief Shakes Hot Springs?
Chief Shakes Hot Springs has Backcountry road access (16.0 mi from the road).
Is Chief Shakes Hot Springs free to visit?
Chief Shakes Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Chief Shakes Hot Springs?
Yes, Shakes Slough 2 Cabin is located nearby (3.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Chief Shakes Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.1 (neutral). Total dissolved solids measure 409 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Chief Shakes Hot Springs?
At 122°F, Chief Shakes Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Chief Shakes Hot Springs crowded?
Chief Shakes Hot Springs 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 Chief Shakes Hot Springs?
Essentials for Chief Shakes Hot Springs: 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.