Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove

Aleutians West Census Area County, Alaska · Near Unalaska
53.2420°N, 168.3650°W · 100 ft
192°F 100 ft Backcountry
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution

At 192°F, the source water at Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove 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 192°F spring in the Aleutians ranks among Alaska's hottest thermal features, far too hot for safe bathing. USGS analysis shows a high-salinity mineral profile with 1,300 mg/L chloride and 650 mg/L sodium, indicating deep geothermal circulation.

At Hot Springs Cove in the Aleutians West Census Area, the spring emerges at 100 feet elevation along rugged coastline accessible only by sea. The water remains intensely hot and mineral-rich, colored and conditioned by dissolved solids from deep subsurface circulation through volcanic rock.

History of Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove

The distinctive chemistry—180 mg/L calcium, 1.5 mg/L magnesium, 88 mg/L sulfate, and 40 µg/L iron—reflects water circulating deep through volcanic formations before ascending. Recent USGS measurements confirmed 92.5°C (198.5°F), virtually unchanged from standard temperature records.

Backcountry access via boat only; no roads reach this location within 27 miles. The site sits in one of Alaska's most exposed maritime environments with annual precipitation of 51.9 inches and 91.5 inches of snow. Plan accordingly for harsh weather.

Is Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove worth visiting?

Best for

  • Observing powerful hot springs
  • Backpacking adventures

Not ideal for

  • Casual soaking
  • Day trips with young children
Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
32°
Jan
34°
Feb
34°
Mar
37°
Apr
41°
May
47°
Jun
51°
Jul
53°
Aug
49°
Sep
44°
Oct
39°
Nov
34°
Dec
Annual Precip: 51.9 in Annual Snow: 91.5 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 32°F · Water 192°F · +160° contrast
February Air 34°F · Water 192°F · +158° contrast
March Air 34°F · Water 192°F · +158° contrast
January offers 21°F more contrast than August
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 198.5°F (92.5°C) Measured Jul 15, 1976
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: 43.0 · Circ 790: 17.0 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: UMNAK
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove?
Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove has a water temperature of 192°F (89°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove located?
Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove is located in Aleutians West Census Area, Alaska at 100 feet elevation, near Unalaska. Coordinates: 53.2420°N, 168.3650°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove?
Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Beachmaster Street (27.4 mi from the road).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove?
The water at Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove reaches 192°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove crowded?
Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove 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 Hot Springs Cove?
Essentials for Hot Springs Near Hot Springs Cove: 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
192°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 192°F (89°C)
Avg Air Temp 41°F
Above Ambient +151°F
Perfect soaking weather March
Access
Road Access Backcountry
Nearest Road Beachmaster Street
Distance to Road 27.4 mi