Soda Springs

Mineral County County, Nevada · Near Hawthorne
38.3430°N, 118.1030°W · 4,642 ft
100°F 4,642 ft Roadside
Soda Springs
File:M 3811848 nw 11 060 20190811.tif — public domain

Soda Springs flows at 100 degrees just 27.7 meters from Veterans Memorial Highway in Mineral County, Nevada, creating roadside access at 4,642 feet elevation. The spring maintains temperatures 42.3 degrees above the 57.7-degree ambient air in one of Nevada's most arid regions.

The spring emerges in the high desert near Hawthorne where extreme aridity defines the landscape. Annual precipitation totals just 5.3 inches with 14.8 inches of snow. The roadside location along Veterans Memorial Highway places the feature in open terrain with scattered sagebrush and greasewood. The surrounding country shows typical basin and range topography with wide valleys separated by north-south trending mountain ranges.

History of Soda Springs

The Soda Springs name likely references mineral deposits or alkaline chemistry, though specific chemical analysis data was not documented in the 1980 NOAA inventory. The spring's proximity to the highway suggests it served as a landmark for early travelers through this desert corridor.

The roadside location provides year-round accessibility from a major paved route. Summer heat can be extreme in this desert environment. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures for brief visits. No facilities exist on site. The spring's limited documentation suggests it may not be suitable for bathing. Veterans Memorial Highway continues north toward Reno.

Is Soda Springs worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
  • Easy day trips
Soda Springs offers an accessible hot spring experience — great for a day trip.
Monthly Climate
36°
Jan
39°
Feb
48°
Mar
56°
Apr
63°
May
76°
Jun
83°
Jul
81°
Aug
73°
Sep
59°
Oct
46°
Nov
35°
Dec
Annual Precip: 5.3 in Annual Snow: 14.8 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 36°F · Water 100°F · +65° contrast
December Air 35°F · Water 100°F · +65° contrast
February Air 39°F · Water 100°F · +61° contrast
January 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: SODAVILLE 7.5 · PP 492: 110.0 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: WALKER LAKE
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Soda Springs?
Soda Springs has a water temperature of 100°F (38°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Soda Springs located?
Soda Springs is located in Mineral County, Nevada at 4,642 feet elevation, near Hawthorne. Coordinates: 38.3430°N, 118.1030°W.
How do I get to Soda Springs?
Soda Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Veterans Memorial Highway (91 ft from the road).
Is it safe to soak at Soda Springs?
Soda 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 Soda Springs crowded?
Soda 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 Soda Springs?
Essentials for Soda Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
100°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 100°F (38°C)
Avg Air Temp 58°F
Above Ambient +42°F
Great soaking conditions March
Access
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Veterans Memorial Highway
Distance to Road 91 ft