Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai

Kodiak Island Borough County, Alaska · Near Kodiak Station
58.2700°N, 154.8900°W · 3,239 ft
Hot 3,239 ft Open Backcountry National Park Service

This hot spring (temperature unrecorded) emerges at 3,239 feet on Mount Katmai within the national park, approximately 19.1 miles from the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road. Located at the heart of one of North America's most volcanically active landscapes, the spring represents ongoing geothermal expression.

On Mount Katmai's slopes within the park, the spring exists in terrain dominated by volcanic peaks, bare rock, and sparse subarctic vegetation. Average annual temperature reaches only 27.6°F with an extraordinary 391.2 inches of snow annually, creating a harsh, unforgiving alpine environment.

History of Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai

Mount Katmai erupted in 1912 as the 20th century's most powerful volcanic explosion, creating the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Geothermal features like this spring reflect the volcano's ongoing heat discharge through subsurface circulation systems, keeping the landscape thermally active today.

Backcountry access from the park via the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road requires substantial hiking and mountaineering skills. Extreme weather, heavy snowfall, and altitude create significant hazards. Open park access through the National Park Service requires permits; plan for intense alpine conditions.

Is Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai worth visiting?

Best for

  • Backpacking adventures

Not ideal for

  • Day trips with young children
Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
15°
Jan
17°
Feb
16°
Mar
24°
Apr
32°
May
39°
Jun
44°
Jul
42°
Aug
36°
Sep
28°
Oct
20°
Nov
17°
Dec
Annual Precip: 87.1 in Annual Snow: 391.2 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. KATMAI (B-3) 15) · PP 492: 58.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: MT. KATMAI
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai?
Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai is classified as hot. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai located?
Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai is located in Kodiak Island Borough, Alaska at 3,239 feet elevation, near Kodiak Station. Coordinates: 58.2700°N, 154.8900°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai?
Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road (19.1 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai free to visit?
Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai?
Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai crowded?
Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai 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 Mt Katmai?
Essentials for Hot Springs Near Mt Katmai: 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 28°F
Access
Open
Road Access Backcountry
Nearest Road Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road
Distance to Road 19.1 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency National Park Service
Designation National Park
Unit Katmai National Park
Manager National Park Service
Protection 1 - Permanent protection, natural state