Serpentine Hot Springs
Serpentine Hot Springs flows at a vigorous 68°C (154°F) in Bering Land Bridge National Preserve on Alaska's Seward Peninsula, with water chemistry dominated by extraordinary chloride levels of 1,500 mg/L—making it one of the most saline springs in the state. This combination of temperature and salinity creates a distinctive soaking experience in one of the continent's most geologically unique locations.
The spring emerges at 450 feet elevation in a sparse landscape of tundra vegetation and weathered volcanic features near the Bering Strait. The setting exemplifies coastal western Alaska: windy, treeless terrain stretching to horizons broken only by low hills and distant water. Visitors approach across open tundra where the spring's thermal waters form pools and streams that warm the surrounding ground, creating a microclimate of unusual vegetation.
Serpentine Hot Springs displays geochemistry reflecting deep circulation through ancient saline formations, likely related to the peninsula's position between two major marine basins. The exceptional chloride and sodium concentrations indicate water has traveled through deep crustal zones and cycled through salt-bearing strata before emerging at the surface, a geological journey taking thousands of years.
Access requires either charter flight to nearby Nome or multi-day travel. The spring sits about 12 miles from the nearest landing area. Visit June through September for the brief ice-free season; winter conditions make travel nearly impossible. Bring water treatment supplies; the high salinity makes the water unsuitable for drinking but excellent for soaking.
Is Serpentine Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Backpacking adventures
Not ideal for
- Day trips with young children
The water at Serpentine Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.8). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration) and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).