Hot Springs Near Glacier

Matanuska-Susitna Borough County, Alaska · Near Y
63.6830°N, 151.2330°W · 962 ft
Warm 962 ft Open Backcountry National Park Service

Within Denali National Park's wilderness, this warm spring emerges near a glacier at 962 feet elevation approximately 10.3 miles from the nearest road, offering wild thermal experience in pristine protected landscape.

The spring flows through glacial terrain in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough's vast wilderness, where the presence of nearby glaciers underscores the dynamic landscape. Expect extreme cold—average annual temperature reaches only 29°F—where geothermal warmth contrasts sharply with surrounding ice.

History of Hot Springs Near Glacier

The spring reflects Denali's geothermal heritage, its heat source connected to deep subsurface systems beneath the Alaska Range. National Park Service management emphasizes wilderness preservation while allowing appropriate public use of this thermal feature in permanently protected lands.

Backcountry access approximately 10.3 miles from the nearest road. Open public access with permits; contact Denali National Park. Extreme cold dominates—annual snowfall reaches 40 inches and temperatures average 29°F. Glacier proximity means cold weather terrain; prepare accordingly. Summer travel only when conditions permit. Wilderness skills and proper equipment essential.

Is Hot Springs Near Glacier worth visiting?

Best for

  • Backpacking adventures

Not ideal for

  • Day trips with young children
Hot Springs Near Glacier rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
-3°
Jan
Feb
14°
Mar
31°
Apr
47°
May
58°
Jun
60°
Jul
55°
Aug
44°
Sep
29°
Oct
Nov
Dec
Annual Precip: 23.3 in Annual Snow: 39.9 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
USGS Quad: (MT. MCKINLEY (C-3) · PP 492: 23.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: MT. MCKINLEY
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs Near Glacier?
Hot Springs Near Glacier is classified as warm. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is Hot Springs Near Glacier located?
Hot Springs Near Glacier is located in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska at 962 feet elevation, near Y. Coordinates: 63.6830°N, 151.2330°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs Near Glacier?
Hot Springs Near Glacier has Backcountry road access (10.3 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs Near Glacier free to visit?
Hot Springs Near Glacier has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs Near Glacier?
Hot Springs Near Glacier is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Springs Near Glacier crowded?
Hot Springs Near Glacier 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 Glacier?
Essentials for Hot Springs Near Glacier: 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
Warm
Warm Hot Boiling
Avg Air Temp 29°F
Access
Open
Road Access Backcountry
Distance to Road 10.3 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency National Park Service
Designation National Park
Unit Denali National Park
Manager National Park Service
Protection 2 - Permanent protection, some use allowed