Hot Springs Near Division Bm

North Slope Borough County, Alaska · Near Barrow
66.3670°N, 156.7670°W · 1,150 ft
140°F 1,150 ft Restricted Backcountry US Fish and Wildlife Service
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution

At 140°F, the source water at Hot Springs Near Division Bm is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.

This 140°F spring in the Arctic's extreme isolation delivers exceptional geothermal heat at 1,150 feet elevation within the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge, demonstrating remarkable heat flux 116°F above ambient conditions.

The spring emerges where the Brooks Range transitions toward the Arctic coastal plain, in landscape shaped by extreme cold and isolation. At 31 miles from the nearest road, the setting embodies the raw Arctic wilderness, where geothermal heat creates an oasis against temperatures averaging 24°F annually.

History of Hot Springs Near Division Bm

The thermal feature connects to deep geothermal systems beneath Alaska's Arctic. Located within permanently protected refuge lands, the spring reflects the USFWS commitment to preserving geothermal features while protecting critical Arctic wildlife habitat in one of North America's most pristine regions.

Backcountry access only; approximately 31 miles from the nearest road in extreme Arctic conditions. Restricted access applies due to wildlife refuge designation. Average annual snowfall reaches 67 inches. Contact US Fish and Wildlife Service well in advance for access permissions and equipment requirements for Arctic expedition travel.

Is Hot Springs Near Division Bm worth visiting?

Best for

  • Observing powerful hot springs
  • Backpacking adventures
  • Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast

Not ideal for

  • Casual soaking
  • Day trips with young children
Hot Springs Near Division Bm rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
-6°
Jan
Feb
Mar
23°
Apr
40°
May
53°
Jun
56°
Jul
50°
Aug
39°
Sep
25°
Oct
Nov
-3°
Dec
Annual Precip: 22.5 in Annual Snow: 66.5 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air -6°F · Water 140°F · +146° contrast
December Air -3°F · Water 140°F · +143° contrast
February Air 0°F · Water 140°F · +140° contrast
January offers 62°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
PP 492: 3.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: SHUNGNAK
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs Near Division Bm?
Hot Springs Near Division Bm has a water temperature of 140°F (60°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs Near Division Bm located?
Hot Springs Near Division Bm is located in North Slope Borough, Alaska at 1,150 feet elevation, near Barrow. Coordinates: 66.3670°N, 156.7670°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs Near Division Bm?
Hot Springs Near Division Bm has Backcountry road access (30.7 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs Near Division Bm free to visit?
Hot Springs Near Division Bm has Restricted access. It is managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs Near Division Bm?
At 140°F, Hot Springs Near Division Bm 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 Springs Near Division Bm crowded?
Hot Springs Near Division Bm 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 Springs Near Division Bm?
Essentials for Hot Springs Near Division Bm: 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
140°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 140°F (60°C)
Avg Air Temp 24°F
Above Ambient +116°F
Perfect soaking weather March
Access
Restricted
Road Access Backcountry
Distance to Road 30.7 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency US Fish and Wildlife Service
Designation National Wildlife Refuge
Unit Selawik National Wildlife Refuge
Manager US Fish and Wildlife Service
Protection 1 - Permanent protection, natural state