At 185°F, the source water at Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs 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:M 4011759 nw 11 060 20190901.tif — public domain
Sou Hot Springs, also known as Seven Devils Hot Springs, emerges at 185 degrees in Pershing County, Nevada, ranking among the hottest thermal springs in the United States. Recent USGS measurements confirm 62.1°C at this roadside feature just 15.3 meters from pavement at 3,700 feet elevation. Water chemistry shows 1,010 mg/L total dissolved solids with neutral pH of 6.9.
The springs discharge in northwestern Nevada's basin terrain where geothermal gradients produce extreme temperatures. The roadside location provides immediate access to view the thermal activity. Annual precipitation totals 8.3 inches with 14.2 inches of snow and average air temperatures of 58.4 degrees in this arid environment. The springs maintain temperatures 126.6 degrees above ambient, creating visible steam discharge. Surrounding vegetation consists of salt-tolerant desert shrubs adapted to thermal seeps.
History of Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs
The dual names Sou Hot Springs and Seven Devils Hot Springs both appear in historical records, though the origin of either designation remains unclear in available documentation. The springs appear in the 1980 NOAA inventory as a significant high-temperature thermal feature.
The scalding 185-degree temperatures absolutely preclude any bathing or direct contact. Visit to observe extreme geothermal discharge from a safe distance. The roadside location eliminates hiking but requires caution around steam and hot water. Accessible year-round via paved approach. Bring camera equipment for documenting this rare high-temperature thermal feature in a desert setting.
Is Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
35°Jan
40°Feb
48°Mar
56°Apr
64°May
76°Jun
86°Jul
84°Aug
73°Sep
59°Oct
45°Nov
34°Dec
Annual Precip: 8.3 inAnnual Snow: 14.2 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 34°F · Water 185°F · +151° contrast
JanuaryAir 35°F · Water 185°F · +150° contrast
FebruaryAir 40°F · Water 185°F · +145° contrast
December offers 51°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
143.8°F
(62.1°C)Measured Oct 24, 2009
Water ChemistrySampled 2009-10-24
The water at Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs is neutral (pH 6.9) with 1010 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and total dissolved solids (higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking).
What is the water temperature at Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs?
Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs has a water temperature of 185°F (85°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs located?
Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs is located in Pershing County, Nevada at 3,700 feet elevation, near Lovelock. Coordinates: 40.0880°N, 117.7250°W.
How do I get to Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs?
Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs has Roadside road access (50 ft from the road).
What minerals are in the water at Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 6.9 (neutral). Total dissolved solids measure 1,010 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs?
The water at Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs reaches 185°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 Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs crowded?
Sou (Seven Devils) 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 Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs?
Essentials for Sou (Seven Devils) Hot Springs: 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.