At 145°F, the source water at 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:Hoover Dam Bridge From Below - 1 (4236146618).jpg — cc by-sa 2.0
An unnamed 145-degree spring flows near Boulder City at just 690 feet elevation, likely representing Gold Strike Hot Springs in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Recent USGS measurements confirm 54.2°C with high dissolved solids of 2,220 mg/L. The spring sits 329 meters from the nearest road, requiring a moderate hike into the canyon system.
The spring emerges in the dramatic desert canyon terrain near Hoover Dam at extremely low elevation. The location in the Colorado River gorge creates spectacular scenery with layered rock formations. Average annual temperature reaches 75.5 degrees with just 5.2 inches of precipitation and virtually no snow. The spring maintains temperatures 69.5 degrees above the already-hot ambient air. Water chemistry shows elevated sulfate at 679 mg/L and chloride at 645 mg/L.
History of Spring
Wikipedia identifies this location as Gold Strike Hot Springs, a popular destination near Hoover Dam. The springs serve day hikers descending the canyon from parking areas above. The 1980 NOAA inventory documented the springs without a specific name designation. The Lake Mead National Recreation Area encompasses the site.
The hike to Gold Strike Hot Springs involves steep canyon descent with technical sections requiring scrambling and rope use. Summer temperatures can be life-threatening, with canyon walls intensifying heat. Visit November through March only. Bring abundant water as the hike is strenuous. Multiple pools exist along the creek allowing temperature mixing. Check Lake Mead NRA regulations before visiting.
Is Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and mineral-rich therapeutic bathing.
Monthly Climate
54°Jan
58°Feb
66°Mar
74°Apr
82°May
95°Jun
98°Jul
97°Aug
89°Sep
76°Oct
63°Nov
53°Dec
Annual Precip: 5.2 inAnnual Snow: 0.2 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 53°F · Water 145°F · +92° contrast
JanuaryAir 54°F · Water 145°F · +91° contrast
FebruaryAir 58°F · Water 145°F · +87° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
129.6°F
(54.2°C)Measured Dec 02, 2008
Water ChemistrySampled 2008-12-02
The water at Spring is neutral (pH 7.1) with 2220 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
USGS Quad: (HOOVER DAM 15) · NOAA: 7.0 · AMS Map: LAS VEGAS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Spring?
Spring has a water temperature of 145°F (63°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Spring located?
Spring is located in Clark County, Nevada at 690 feet elevation, near Boulder City. Coordinates: 36.0020°N, 114.7420°W.
How do I get to Spring?
Spring has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
What minerals are in the water at Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.1 (neutral). Total dissolved solids measure 2,220 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Spring?
The water at Spring reaches 145°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 Spring crowded?
Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Spring?
Essentials for Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), 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.
