Pearl Hot Springs

Esmeralda County County, Nevada · Near Goldfield
37.8220°N, 117.4800°W · 4,350 ft
97°F 4,350 ft Open Roadside Bureau of Land Management

Pearl Hot Springs flows at 97°F on Bureau of Land Management public land at 4,350 feet elevation along Pearl Spring Road in Esmeralda County, emerging 38 degrees above the 60°F average annual air temperature. The spring sits just 47 feet from the road, offering immediate roadside access to thermal water in Nevada's central mineral belt. The spring's location on BLM land managed by the Tonopah Field Office provides public access to this warm feature in the arid high desert near Goldfield.

The spring emerges at 4,350 feet elevation in the valleys southwest of Goldfield, in classic Great Basin terrain characterized by sagebrush-covered slopes and alluvial valley floors. The area receives just 5.5 inches of annual precipitation and 12 inches of snow, creating severe aridity typical of central Nevada's desert ranges. Pearl Spring Road likely takes its name from this thermal feature, which has served as a landmark and water source in this sparsely populated landscape. The spring flows in country that saw intensive mining activity during the early 20th-century gold rushes.

History of Pearl Hot Springs

Pearl Hot Springs likely served prospectors and miners working the Goldfield district during the 1900s boom, when this area ranked among Nevada's most productive gold camps. The spring's reliable flow would have provided valuable water in this arid region. The spring's name may reference the mineral deposits formed by evaporation of the thermal water. No documented resort development or commercial bathing facility has been located. The spring continues to flow from BLM-managed public land accessible to visitors.

The spring's location on BLM public land along Pearl Spring Road provides legal access year-round, though summer heat and winter cold create seasonal challenges. The 97°F temperature offers moderately warm bathing conditions during cool weather but limited appeal in summer. Spring and fall provide the most practical visiting seasons. No developed facilities exist on site. Visitors should carry adequate water, practice leave-no-trace ethics, and be prepared for remote desert conditions. Goldfield offers limited services for those exploring central Nevada's historic mining districts and scattered thermal features.

Is Pearl Hot Springs worth visiting?

Best for

  • Warm-water soaking
  • Easy day trips
Pearl Hot Springs is well suited for warm-water soaking and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
37°
Jan
41°
Feb
50°
Mar
58°
Apr
65°
May
79°
Jun
84°
Jul
83°
Aug
74°
Sep
60°
Oct
46°
Nov
36°
Dec
Annual Precip: 5.5 in Annual Snow: 12.1 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 36°F · Water 97°F · +61° contrast
January Air 37°F · Water 97°F · +60° contrast
February Air 41°F · Water 97°F · +56° contrast
December offers 48°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: PAYMASTER RIDGE 7.5 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: GOLDFIELD
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Pearl Hot Springs?
Pearl Hot Springs has a water temperature of 97°F (36°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Pearl Hot Springs located?
Pearl Hot Springs is located in Esmeralda County, Nevada at 4,350 feet elevation, near Goldfield. Coordinates: 37.8220°N, 117.4800°W.
How do I get to Pearl Hot Springs?
Pearl Hot Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Pearl Spring Road (155 ft from the road).
Is Pearl Hot Springs free to visit?
Pearl Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Is it safe to soak at Pearl Hot Springs?
Pearl Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Pearl Hot Springs crowded?
Pearl Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Pearl Hot Springs?
Essentials for Pearl Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
97°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 97°F (36°C)
Avg Air Temp 60°F
Above Ambient +38°F
Good soaking conditions March
Access
Open
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Pearl Spring Road
Distance to Road 155 ft
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency Bureau of Land Management
Designation PUB
Unit Tonopah Field Office
Manager Bureau of Land Management
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use