Hot Spring On Unimak Island

Aleutians East Borough County, Alaska · Near Akutan
54.6600°N, 164.5500°W · 138 ft
Hot 138 ft Restricted Hike US Fish and Wildlife Service

Unimak Island hosts a remote thermal spring in one of Alaska's most isolated volcanic landscapes, delivering geothermal heat through federal wildlife refuge protection at 138 feet elevation.

The spring emerges across tundra and volcanic substrate, roughly 3.7 miles from a historic World War II Army trail. Visitors encounter rugged Aleutian terrain shaped by ongoing volcanic activity, with the Alaska Maritime refuge providing protection for this geothermal feature in extreme northern isolation.

History of Hot Spring On Unimak Island

The Aleutian Arc's volcanic system feeds this thermal feature, formed by the same geological forces that created the entire island chain. The spring reflects Alaska's rich geothermal heritage, where Aleutian volcanism creates heat sources that sustain life in harsh Arctic waters.

Access requires a moderate hike from the WWII Army Jeep Trail across volcanic tundra. Plan for severe weather typical of the Aleutians; annual snowfall reaches 146 inches. Restricted access applies due to wildlife refuge designation—check with US Fish and Wildlife Service before attempting a visit.

Monthly Climate
29°
Jan
31°
Feb
30°
Mar
34°
Apr
40°
May
46°
Jun
51°
Jul
52°
Aug
48°
Sep
42°
Oct
37°
Nov
32°
Dec
Annual Precip: 61.7 in Annual Snow: 146.2 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
PP 492: 49.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: UNIMAK
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Spring On Unimak Island?
Hot Spring On Unimak Island is classified as hot. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is Hot Spring On Unimak Island located?
Hot Spring On Unimak Island is located in Aleutians East Borough, Alaska at 138 feet elevation, near Akutan. Coordinates: 54.6600°N, 164.5500°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring On Unimak Island?
Hot Spring On Unimak Island has Hike road access, with the nearest road being World War II US Army Jeep Trail (3.7 mi from the road).
Is Hot Spring On Unimak Island free to visit?
Hot Spring On Unimak Island has Restricted access. It is managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring On Unimak Island?
Hot Spring On Unimak Island is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Spring On Unimak Island crowded?
Hot Spring On Unimak Island sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Spring On Unimak Island?
Essentials for Hot Spring On Unimak Island: 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 39°F
Access
Restricted
Road Access Hike
Nearest Road World War II US Army Jeep Trail
Distance to Road 3.7 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