Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island

Alaska · Near Beringovskiy
51.9400°N, 178.5000°W · 1,084 ft
Hot 1,084 ft Restricted Backcountry US Fish and Wildlife Service

This geothermal feature sits on one of Alaska's most remote and geologically active volcanic islands at the western edge of the Aleutian chain. Water designated simply as hot in historical records, it sits at 1,084 feet elevation in a protected wildlife refuge with restricted public access.

The spring emerges on Little Sitkin Island, where a volcanic peak rises steeply from the surrounding ocean. At 1,084 feet elevation, the island sits more than 190 miles from the nearest road across open ocean, making road-distance measurements meaningless for access planning. The landscape features active volcanic terrain with thermal manifestations and an environment almost entirely inaccessible to casual visitors.

History of Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island

This hot spring formed through vigorous geothermal activity on Little Sitkin Island, one of the westernmost volcanoes in the Aleutian arc. The island sits at the very edge of American territorial waters, where geological activity remains intense. The spring's existence on this remote peak demonstrates the vigorous thermal systems that persist in this volcanically active region.

Access is extremely restricted in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge with no practical public access. The spring lies under permanent protection in its natural state. Average annual air temperature reaches only 36.5°F with 44 inches of precipitation and 76 inches of snow. This island represents one of North America's most extreme thermal locations.

Is Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island worth visiting?

Best for

  • Backpacking adventures

Not ideal for

  • Day trips with young children
Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
31°
Jan
31°
Feb
31°
Mar
33°
Apr
35°
May
38°
Jun
42°
Jul
45°
Aug
44°
Sep
41°
Oct
36°
Nov
32°
Dec
Annual Precip: 44.4 in Annual Snow: 75.6 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: 29.0 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: RAT ISLANDS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island?
Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island is classified as hot. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island located?
Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island is located in Alaska at 1,084 feet elevation, near Beringovskiy. Coordinates: 51.9400°N, 178.5000°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island?
Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island has Backcountry road access (191.0 mi from the road).
Is Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island free to visit?
Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island has Restricted access. It is managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island?
Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Spring On Little Sitkin Island crowded?
Hot Spring On Little Sitkin 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 Little Sitkin Island?
Essentials for Hot Spring On Little Sitkin 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 37°F
Access
Restricted
Road Access Backcountry
Distance to Road 191.0 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