Hot Spring On Kagamil Island

Aleutians West Census Area County, Alaska · Near Dutch Harbor
52.9600°N, 169.7100°W · 583 ft
Hot 583 ft Restricted Backcountry US Fish and Wildlife Service

This remote Aleutian hot spring emerges from a small, uninhabited volcanic island in the Islands of Four Mountains, where active geothermal systems and periodic eruptions reshape the landscape. Water designated simply as hot in historical records, it sits at 583 feet elevation in a protected wildlife refuge with restricted access.

The spring flows on a volcanic island that represents one of the most actively geothermal locations in the Aleutian chain. At 583 feet elevation, approximately 35 miles from the nearest road, the island sits in completely open ocean exposure. The landscape features volcanic cones, lava flows, and thermal manifestations scattered across rugged terrain shaped by ongoing geological activity.

History of Hot Spring On Kagamil Island

This hot spring formed through vigorous geothermal systems on Kagamil Island, one of the Islands of Four Mountains where active volcanoes and dormant cones dot the central Aleutian chain. The island sits at the intersection of the Bering Sea and North Pacific, placing it at a geologically active zone where volcanic activity remains frequent and eruptions occur periodically.

Access is restricted to protect the island's ecological and geological values; permits required from US Fish and Wildlife Service. The spring lies under permanent protection in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. With average annual air temperature of 38.4°F, 41 inches of precipitation, and 54 inches of snow, visitors face extremely challenging maritime conditions.

Is Hot Spring On Kagamil Island worth visiting?

Best for

  • Backpacking adventures

Not ideal for

  • Day trips with young children
Hot Spring On Kagamil Island rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
33°
Jan
34°
Feb
33°
Mar
35°
Apr
37°
May
40°
Jun
44°
Jul
46°
Aug
44°
Sep
41°
Oct
38°
Nov
35°
Dec
Annual Precip: 40.9 in Annual Snow: 53.6 in
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
References
PP 492: 40.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: SAMALGA ISLAND
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Spring On Kagamil Island?
Hot Spring On Kagamil Island is classified as hot. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is Hot Spring On Kagamil Island located?
Hot Spring On Kagamil Island is located in Aleutians West Census Area, Alaska at 583 feet elevation, near Dutch Harbor. Coordinates: 52.9600°N, 169.7100°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring On Kagamil Island?
Hot Spring On Kagamil Island has Backcountry road access (34.8 mi from the road).
Is Hot Spring On Kagamil Island free to visit?
Hot Spring On Kagamil Island has Restricted access. It is managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring On Kagamil Island?
Hot Spring On Kagamil Island is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Spring On Kagamil Island crowded?
Hot Spring On Kagamil Island 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 On Kagamil Island?
Essentials for Hot Spring On Kagamil Island: 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.
Temperature
Hot
Warm Hot Boiling
Avg Air Temp 38°F
Access
Restricted
Road Access Backcountry
Distance to Road 34.8 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency US Fish and Wildlife Service
Designation National Wildlife Refuge
Unit Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge
Manager US Fish and Wildlife Service
Protection 1 - Permanent protection, natural state