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Horner Hot Springs

Kenai Peninsula Borough County, Alaska · Near Nikiski

64.9240°N, 154.8370°W · 400 ft

117°F 400 ft Backcountry

Horner Hot Springs emerge at 117 degrees Fahrenheit in interior Alaska's vast wilderness 22 miles from the nearest road, where winter temperatures plunge far below zero above the Arctic Circle.

The spring occupies boreal forest at 400 feet elevation where subarctic conditions create 88-degree temperature contrasts, with minimal dissolved solids (292 mg/L) indicating fresh-water circulation through clean granite bedrock.

History of Horner Hot Springs

The spring's fresh-water chemistry and location along the Lena Loop reflect circulation through the Yukon-Tanana uplands' granite basement rocks, with thermal anomalies driven by regional crustal heat in this tectonically active interior.

Backcountry access via Lena Loop requires serious wilderness skills and multi-day expedition planning. Summer provides the only practical window; prepare for extreme seasonal temperature swings and complete isolation.

Is Horner Hot Springs worth visiting?

Best for

Hot spring soaking
Backpacking adventures
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast

Not ideal for

Day trips with young children

Horner Hot Springs rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.

Monthly Climate

-3°

Jan

5°

Feb

13°

Mar

30°

Apr

46°

May

58°

Jun

60°

Jul

54°

Aug

43°

Sep

30°

Oct

8°

Nov

2°

Dec

Annual Precip: 23.3 in Annual Snow: 57.1 in

Best Time to Visit

January Air -3°F · Water 117°F · +120° contrast

December Air 2°F · Water 117°F · +115° contrast

February Air 5°F · Water 117°F · +112° contrast

January offers 63°F more contrast than July

USGS Field Measurements

Recent Temperature 117.5°F (47.5°C) Measured Aug 10, 1915

Water Chemistry Sampled 1915-08-10

The water at Horner Hot Springs contains 292 mg/L total dissolved solids.

Total Dissolved Solids 292 mg/L

Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking

Calcium 10 mg/L

May support bone density and joint health

Magnesium 3 mg/L

Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief

Sulfate 45 mg/L

Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation

Chloride 39 mg/L

Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits

Explore more hot springs in Alaska →

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

Location

0 miles from Nikiski, AK

See all springs near Nikiski →

Get Directions View larger map →

References

USGS NWIS OpenStreetMap

USGS Quad: RUBY (D-4) 15 · PP 492: 9.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: RUBY

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the water temperature at Horner Hot Springs?

Horner Hot Springs has a water temperature of 117°F (47°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.

Where is Horner Hot Springs located?

Horner Hot Springs is located in Kenai Peninsula Borough, Alaska at 400 feet elevation, near Nikiski. Coordinates: 64.9240°N, 154.8370°W.

How do I get to Horner Hot Springs?

Horner Hot Springs has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Lena Loop (22.4 mi from the road).

What minerals are in the water at Horner Hot Springs?

Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfate, Chloride. Total dissolved solids measure 292 mg/L.

Is it safe to soak at Horner Hot Springs?

At 117°F, Horner Hot Springs 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 Horner Hot Springs crowded?

Horner 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 Horner Hot Springs?

Essentials for Horner Hot Springs: 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

117°F

Warm Hot Boiling

Water Temp 117°F (47°C)

Avg Air Temp 29°F

Above Ambient +88°F

Perfect soaking weather March

Access

Road Access Backcountry

Nearest Road Lena Loop

Distance to Road 22.4 mi

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