Spring

Humboldt County County, Nevada · Near Winnemucca
41.5300°N, 118.5700°W · 4,100 ft
104°F 4,100 ft Open Short Walk Bureau of Land Management

This 104-degree spring on BLM land near Winnemucca flows 50 degrees above ambient air temperature, making it one of Humboldt County's hotter thermal features. Recent USGS data confirms 40°C temperatures with moderately mineralized water containing 660 mg/L total dissolved solids. A short walk from Woodward Road provides open public access.

At 4,100 feet elevation in northern Nevada's high desert, the spring emerges from terrain managed by the BLM's Humboldt River Field Office. The setting receives 8.8 inches of annual precipitation and 19 inches of snow, with average air temperatures of 53.9°F creating conditions 50 degrees cooler than the spring water. Sagebrush and desert scrub vegetation typical of the Great Basin surround the site. The spring sits 156 meters from Woodward Road in open rangeland subject to multiple-use management.

History of Spring

Historical records for this unnamed thermal feature remain limited. The generic designation "SPRING" suggests it lacks documented Indigenous or settler naming traditions. The site falls within traditional Northern Paiute territories, though specific use of this spring is not recorded in available sources.

Visit during spring or fall when temperatures moderate from summer's heat and winter's snow. The 156-meter walk from Woodward Road crosses open terrain requiring sturdy footwear. High mineral content makes the water unsuitable for drinking. Winnemucca, 20 miles away, provides services and supplies. Winter access may require checking road conditions after storms.

Is Spring worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking.
Monthly Climate
31°
Jan
36°
Feb
43°
Mar
51°
Apr
60°
May
71°
Jun
81°
Jul
79°
Aug
69°
Sep
54°
Oct
41°
Nov
30°
Dec
Annual Precip: 8.8 in Annual Snow: 19.0 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 30°F · Water 104°F · +74° contrast
January Air 31°F · Water 104°F · +73° contrast
February Air 36°F · Water 104°F · +68° contrast
December offers 51°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 104.0°F (40.0°C) Measured Oct 08, 1960
Water Chemistry Sampled 1960-10-08

The water at Spring contains 660 mg/L total dissolved solids.

Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 3 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 2 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 210 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 67 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 54 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: DUFFER PEAK 15 · NOAA: 11.0 · AMS Map: VYA
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Spring?
Spring has a water temperature of 104°F (40°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Spring located?
Spring is located in Humboldt County, Nevada at 4,100 feet elevation, near Winnemucca. Coordinates: 41.5300°N, 118.5700°W.
How do I get to Spring?
Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Woodward Road (513 ft from the road).
Is Spring free to visit?
Spring has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
What minerals are in the water at Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. Total dissolved solids measure 660 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Spring?
Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. 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, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
104°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 104°F (40°C)
Avg Air Temp 54°F
Above Ambient +50°F
Great soaking conditions March
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Nearest Road Woodward Road
Distance to Road 513 ft
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency Bureau of Land Management
Designation PUB
Unit Humboldt River Field Office
Manager Bureau of Land Management
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use