Gas Rocks Hot Spring

Dillingham Census Area County, Alaska · Near Dillingham
57.8650°N, 156.4990°W · 20 ft
127°F 20 ft Backcountry

Gas Rocks Hot Spring reaches 127 degrees Fahrenheit despite extreme continental isolation 16 miles from the nearest jeep trail in the Bristol Bay region near Dillingham, Alaska.

The spring emerges from low elevation (20 feet) into a subarctic coastal landscape where average air temperatures of 39 degrees make the 88-degree temperature contrast dramatically visible, with steam rising into cold maritime air.

History of Gas Rocks Hot Spring

The spring's sodium-chloride chemistry (18,000 and 32,000 mg/L respectively) suggests deep circulation through marine-influenced sedimentary rocks typical of the Bristol Bay basin's geothermal systems.

Access requires backcountry navigation to a remote jeep trail. Heavy snow (78 inches annually) restricts access to brief summer windows, and visitors should prepare for exposed, windswept coastal terrain.

Is Gas Rocks Hot Spring worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
  • Backpacking adventures
  • Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast

Not ideal for

  • Day trips with young children
Gas Rocks Hot Spring rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
24°
Jan
28°
Feb
26°
Mar
36°
Apr
44°
May
50°
Jun
55°
Jul
55°
Aug
50°
Sep
41°
Oct
32°
Nov
27°
Dec
Annual Precip: 42.6 in Annual Snow: 78.3 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 24°F · Water 127°F · +103° contrast
March Air 26°F · Water 127°F · +101° contrast
December Air 27°F · Water 127°F · +100° contrast
January offers 31°F more contrast than August
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 127.4°F (53.0°C) Measured Aug 25, 1977
Water Chemistry Sampled 1977-08-25

The water at Gas Rocks Hot Spring is slightly acidic (pH 5.9). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration).

pH 5.9 Slightly Acidic
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Calcium 1,500 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 460 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 18,000 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 140 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 32,000 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
What to Bring
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
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes Hot ground near source
References
USGS Quad: (UGASHIK (D-2) 15) · PP 492: 56.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: UGASHIK
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
Gas Rocks Hot Spring has a water temperature of 127°F (53°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Gas Rocks Hot Spring located?
Gas Rocks Hot Spring is located in Dillingham Census Area, Alaska at 20 feet elevation, near Dillingham. Coordinates: 57.8650°N, 156.4990°W.
How do I get to Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
Gas Rocks Hot Spring has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Jeep Trail (15.9 mi from the road).
What minerals are in the water at Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 5.9 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
At 127°F, Gas Rocks Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Gas Rocks Hot Spring crowded?
Gas Rocks 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 Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
Essentials for Gas Rocks Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sturdy footwear for the approach, warm layers for before and after soaking, 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
127°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 127°F (53°C)
Avg Air Temp 39°F
Above Ambient +88°F
Perfect soaking weather March
Access
Road Access Backcountry
Nearest Road Jeep Trail
Distance to Road 15.9 mi