Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake

Dillingham Census Area County, Alaska · Near Dillingham
57.1780°N, 157.0150°W · 583 ft
138°F 583 ft Restricted Backcountry US Fish and Wildlife Service

Producing 138-degree water at 583 feet elevation, this spring delivers heat 101 degrees above freezing in an Alaska Peninsula refuge where volcanic activity continues to influence groundwater temperature.

The surrounding Alaska Peninsula landscape features rugged mountains, glaciated terrain, and coastal lowlands supporting diverse wildlife. The spring sits 14 miles from the nearest road in designated wildlife refuge territory.

History of Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake

This spring's exceptional heat reflects ongoing volcanic influences in a region with complex geology and active geothermal systems. The refuge protects this feature under federal management with restrictions on public access.

Access is restricted and requires special permits from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. The remote location and restricted status preserve this thermal feature for scientific study and wildlife habitat protection.

Is Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake worth visiting?

Best for

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

Not ideal for

  • Day trips with young children
Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
22°
Jan
26°
Feb
24°
Mar
33°
Apr
41°
May
49°
Jun
54°
Jul
54°
Aug
48°
Sep
39°
Oct
29°
Nov
24°
Dec
Annual Precip: 65.4 in Annual Snow: 183.1 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 22°F · Water 138°F · +116° contrast
March Air 24°F · Water 138°F · +114° contrast
December Air 24°F · Water 138°F · +114° contrast
January offers 32°F more contrast than July
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 (A-4) 15) · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: UGASHIK
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake?
Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake has a water temperature of 138°F (59°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake located?
Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake is located in Dillingham Census Area, Alaska at 583 feet elevation, near Dillingham. Coordinates: 57.1780°N, 157.0150°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake?
Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake has Backcountry road access (14.1 mi from the road).
Is Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake free to visit?
Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake has Restricted access. It is managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake?
At 138°F, Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake 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 Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake crowded?
Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake 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 Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake?
Essentials for Hot Spring Near Mother Goose Lake: 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
138°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 138°F (59°C)
Avg Air Temp 37°F
Above Ambient +101°F
Perfect soaking weather March
Access
Restricted
Road Access Backcountry
Distance to Road 14.1 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency US Fish and Wildlife Service
Designation National Wildlife Refuge
Unit Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuge
Manager US Fish and Wildlife Service
Protection 2 - Permanent protection, some use allowed