At 181°F, the source water at Baltazor Hot Spring 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.
File:2014-07-06 15 07 32 View west along Nevada State Route 140 (Adel Road) about 39.1 miles east of the Oregon border in Humboldt County, Nevada.JPG — cc by-sa 4.0
Baltazor Hot Spring reaches 181°F — 128 degrees above ambient air — making it one of northern Nevada's most intensely heated geothermal sources. It sits at 4,213 feet in remote Humboldt County, approximately 517 meters from the Denio-Adel Road. The water is far too hot for any direct human contact.
The spring occupies a wide sagebrush valley in Nevada's far northwest corner, close to the Oregon border. Surrounding terrain is classic Great Basin high desert: rolling sage flats broken by alkali playas and rimmed by fault-block ranges. Annual precipitation is 10.2 inches with 25.2 inches of snow, producing cold winters and mild summers. The Denio-Adel Road, a remote gravel corridor, passes nearby. No towns or facilities exist within many miles; the nearest settlement of any size is Winnemucca, a long drive to the southeast.
History of Baltazor Hot Spring
Limited public historical records exist for Baltazor Hot Spring. The name likely derives from early ranching families in the Baltazor Ranch area of northern Humboldt County. The spring's extreme temperature and remote location have discouraged commercial development. It remains an undeveloped geothermal feature on open rangeland.
The Denio-Adel Road is unpaved and can become impassable in wet weather or winter snow. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended. The 181°F water is scalding — maintain a safe distance from the source and any outflow channels. Winters bring sub-zero temperatures and road closures; summer is the practical travel season. Carry all water, fuel, and supplies. Cell service is nonexistent in this area.
Is Baltazor Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Baltazor Hot Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs.
What is the water temperature at Baltazor Hot Spring?
Baltazor Hot Spring has a water temperature of 181°F (83°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Baltazor Hot Spring located?
Baltazor Hot Spring is located in Humboldt County, Nevada at 4,213 feet elevation, near Winnemucca. Coordinates: 41.9210°N, 118.7090°W.
How do I get to Baltazor Hot Spring?
Baltazor Hot Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Denio-Adel Road (0.3 mi from the road).
Is it safe to soak at Baltazor Hot Spring?
The water at Baltazor Hot Spring reaches 181°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 Baltazor Hot Spring crowded?
Baltazor Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Baltazor Hot Spring?
Essentials for Baltazor Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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.
