Geyser Ranch Springs

White Pine County County, Nevada · Near Ely
38.6710°N, 114.6280°W · 6,000 ft
70°F 6,000 ft Short Walk
Geyser — Not a Soaking Spring

Geyser Ranch Springs is a geyser, not a traditional hot spring. These geothermal features can be extremely dangerous — boiling water, toxic gases, and unstable ground are common hazards. Do not attempt to soak.

Geyser Ranch Springs
File:2014-08-09 12 07 15 Open Range sign along southbound U.S. Route 93 in far northern Lincoln County, Nevada.JPG — cc by-sa 4.0

Geyser Ranch Springs flows at 70 degrees Fahrenheit at 6,000 feet elevation in White Pine County, the highest discharge point in this thermal complex. Located 220 meters from the nearest road, the spring maintains temperature 18.7 degrees above the 51.3-degree annual air temperature in this short-walk access classification.

At 6,000 feet, this spring emerges at the upper elevation limit of the Geyser Ranch thermal system, where sagebrush steppe intermixes with juniper and mountain mahogany. The landscape receives 9.8 inches of precipitation with 34 inches of snow, creating seasonal moisture conditions that support deeper-rooted vegetation than lower basins. Rolling hills and shallow valleys characterize the surrounding terrain, with distant peaks visible across White Pine County's basin-and-range province.

History of Geyser Ranch Springs

This represents the northernmost and highest-elevation discharge in the Geyser Ranch Springs group, all sharing similar temperatures and chemistry suggesting a common deep aquifer. The ranch utilized multiple spring sources for stock water across its grazing allotments. Historical records provide limited detail on development, though the consistent naming indicates recognition of the thermal system as a unified feature by early 20th-century operators.

Plan for a 220-meter walk from the parking area across uneven high-desert terrain, so wear sturdy boots. Visit from May through October when snow melts and access roads dry out at this 6,000-foot elevation. Afternoon thunderstorms develop frequently in summer. Verify current land status and access permissions before departure, as ranch boundaries may limit public entry.

Monthly Climate
28°
Jan
30°
Feb
39°
Mar
48°
Apr
57°
May
72°
Jun
77°
Jul
76°
Aug
67°
Sep
53°
Oct
40°
Nov
28°
Dec
Annual Precip: 9.8 in Annual Snow: 34.1 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 28°F · Water 70°F · +43° contrast
December Air 28°F · Water 70°F · +42° contrast
February Air 30°F · Water 70°F · +40° contrast
January offers 50°F more contrast than July
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: MT. GRAFTON 7.5 · PP 492: 142.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: LUND
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Geyser Ranch Springs?
Geyser Ranch Springs has a water temperature of 70°F (21°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Geyser Ranch Springs located?
Geyser Ranch Springs is located in White Pine County, Nevada at 6,000 feet elevation, near Ely. Coordinates: 38.6710°N, 114.6280°W.
How do I get to Geyser Ranch Springs?
Geyser Ranch Springs has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Is it safe to soak at Geyser Ranch Springs?
Geyser Ranch Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded 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 Geyser Ranch Springs crowded?
Geyser Ranch Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Geyser Ranch Springs?
Essentials for Geyser Ranch Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
70°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 70°F (21°C)
Avg Air Temp 51°F
Above Ambient +19°F
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.1 mi