Neka Hot Spring

Sitka City and Borough County, Alaska · Near Sitka
58.0883°N, 135.8479°W · 69 ft
69 ft Open Short Walk USFS Camping nearby (6.6 mi)

Neka Hot Spring sits at sea level on Tongass National Forest land, just 402 feet from Forest Road 8580, making it one of Southeast Alaska's most accessible thermal features. The short walk access allows even casual visitors to experience this protected geothermal resource.

Temperate rainforest surrounds this spring at just 69 feet elevation near Sitka, where annual precipitation exceeds 87 inches and snow totals 200 inches. The Pacific maritime climate creates lush vegetation and frequent moisture despite cool average annual temperature of 43 degrees Fahrenheit.

History of Neka Hot Spring

Neka Hot Spring appears as a documented thermal feature in the Tongass National Forest ecosystem, where the US Forest Service manages it under protections allowing sustainable use. The spring's documentation in OpenStreetMap reflects growing recognition of Southeast Alaska's geothermal landscape.

Visitors enjoy exceptional accessibility by Southeast Alaska standards, requiring only a short walk from the road. The protected status permits public access through Tongass National Forest. Access remains open year-round, though wet conditions and snow present seasonal challenges in this rainforest environment.

Is Neka Hot Spring worth visiting?

Best for

  • Overnight camping trips
Neka Hot Spring is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
31°
Jan
30°
Feb
33°
Mar
39°
Apr
48°
May
54°
Jun
58°
Jul
58°
Aug
53°
Sep
44°
Oct
35°
Nov
33°
Dec
Annual Precip: 87.4 in Annual Snow: 200.4 in
Nearby Camping
Eight Fathom Cabin 6.6 mi away

Overview Eight Fathom Cabin was constructed in 2009. It is located 15 miles from Hoonah, Alaska in the protected waters of Port Frederick. It is generally available year-round and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska, offering recreational options and abundant wildlife. The cabin is remote. It is accessible only by boat or float plane. From Hoonah, the boat ride is 45 minutes. By float plane, the flight is 30 minutes from Juneau and less than 10 minutes from Hoon...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear Nearby camping at Eight Fathom Cabin
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Neka Hot Spring located?
Neka Hot Spring is located in Sitka City and Borough, Alaska at 69 feet elevation, near Sitka. Coordinates: 58.0883°N, 135.8479°W.
How do I get to Neka Hot Spring?
Neka Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being F R 8580 Road (403 ft from the road).
Is Neka Hot Spring free to visit?
Neka Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by USFS.
Can I camp near Neka Hot Spring?
Yes, Eight Fathom Cabin is located nearby (6.6 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Neka Hot Spring?
Neka Hot Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Neka Hot Spring crowded?
Neka Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Neka Hot Spring?
Essentials for Neka Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
No data recorded
Avg Air Temp 43°F
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Nearest Road F R 8580 Road
Distance to Road 403 ft
Bath Type Hot spring
Land
Ownership FED
Agency USFS
Designation NF
Unit Tongass National Forest
Manager USFS
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use