Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak

Kenai Peninsula Borough County, Alaska · Near Nikiski
61.2670°N, 151.2380°W
Hot Unknown Hike DESG

Hot Lake in Crater Peak's bottom creates one of Alaska's most dramatic geothermal features, a heated water body inside an active volcanic crater on tribal lands in the Kenai Peninsula Borough.

The crater lake occupies tribal land where volcanic calderas dominate the landscape, with thermal water reflecting residual magmatic heat deep within the volcanic system, creating a unique landscape scarred by volcanic forces.

History of Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak

This crater lake represents ongoing vulcanism in the Aleutian volcanic arc, where subduction-driven magmatism powers crater-bottom thermal features on land traditionally occupied and managed by Alaska Native communities.

Hiking access on tribal lands requires respect for indigenous sovereignty and management practices. Limited public information reflects the protected status; check with local Alaskan communities before attempting visits.

Monthly Climate
15°
Jan
19°
Feb
23°
Mar
34°
Apr
45°
May
54°
Jun
58°
Jul
55°
Aug
47°
Sep
36°
Oct
22°
Nov
18°
Dec
Annual Precip: 38.5 in Annual Snow: 81.5 in
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers Cold air before and after soaking
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: (TYONEK (B-6) 15) · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: TYONEK
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak?
Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak is classified as hot. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak located?
Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak is located in Kenai Peninsula Borough, Alaska, near Nikiski. Coordinates: 61.2670°N, 151.2380°W.
How do I get to Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak?
Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak has Hike road access (3.6 mi from the road).
Is Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak free to visit?
Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak has Unknown access. It is managed by DESG.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak?
Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak crowded?
Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak?
Essentials for Hot Lake In Bottom Of Crater Peak: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
Hot
Warm Hot Boiling
Avg Air Temp 36°F
Access
Unknown
Road Access Hike
Distance to Road 3.6 mi
Land
Ownership DESG
Agency DESG
Designation Tribal Land
Unit Knik Alaska Native Village Statistical Area
Manager TRIB
Protection 4 - No known protection