Hot Springs Near South Bm

North Slope Borough County, Alaska · Near Barrow
66.1500°N, 157.1170°W · 1,044 ft
122°F 1,044 ft Open Backcountry Bureau of Land Management

This extreme Arctic spring reaches 122°F in one of North America's harshest climates, where annual temperatures average just 24.9°F. Located 36.6 miles from the nearest road on Alaska's North Slope, it exemplifies geothermal heat in an unforgiving landscape.

The spring emerges at 1,044 feet elevation on tundra managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The 97.1°F temperature differential between the water and frigid ambient air creates dramatic steam in the extreme cold. Winter temperatures plunge below minus 50°F, while summer remains cool.

History of Hot Springs Near South Bm

The Arctic's geothermal features form through subsurface heat sources beneath permafrost. This spring sits on public lands with extractive-use protections, reflecting Alaska's balance between resource access and conservation in remote federal territories.

Access requires serious backcountry preparation and likely helicopter or bush plane transport. The area receives 24.2 inches of precipitation and 68.6 inches of snow annually. Visitors should expect extreme isolation and be prepared for sudden Arctic weather changes.

Is Hot Springs Near South Bm worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
  • Backpacking adventures
  • Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast

Not ideal for

  • Day trips with young children
Hot Springs Near South Bm rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
-5°
Jan
Feb
Mar
24°
Apr
41°
May
54°
Jun
56°
Jul
50°
Aug
40°
Sep
26°
Oct
Nov
-1°
Dec
Annual Precip: 24.2 in Annual Snow: 68.6 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air -5°F · Water 122°F · +127° contrast
December Air -1°F · Water 122°F · +123° contrast
February Air 1°F · Water 122°F · +121° contrast
January offers 61°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
Circ 790: 6.0 · NOAA: 3.0 · AMS Map: SHUNGNAK
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs Near South Bm?
Hot Springs Near South Bm has a water temperature of 122°F (50°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs Near South Bm located?
Hot Springs Near South Bm is located in North Slope Borough, Alaska at 1,044 feet elevation, near Barrow. Coordinates: 66.1500°N, 157.1170°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs Near South Bm?
Hot Springs Near South Bm has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Eleven Mile Landing Strip Road (36.6 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs Near South Bm free to visit?
Hot Springs Near South Bm has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs Near South Bm?
At 122°F, Hot Springs Near South 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 South Bm crowded?
Hot Springs Near South 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 South Bm?
Essentials for Hot Springs Near South 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
122°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 122°F (50°C)
Avg Air Temp 25°F
Above Ambient +97°F
Perfect soaking weather March
Access
Open
Road Access Backcountry
Nearest Road Eleven Mile Landing Strip Road
Distance to Road 36.6 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency Bureau of Land Management
Designation PUB
Unit Central Yukon Field Office
Manager Bureau of Land Management
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use