Spring
This thermal spring emerges 633 meters from the nearest road at 4,566 feet elevation in Lyon County's transition zone between the Sierra Nevada and Great Basin ranges. Classified as warm (temperature data recorded only as "W"), the spring requires a short walk across terrain receiving 12.5 inches of annual precipitation and 28.9 inches of snow.
The spring sits in rolling terrain at the interface between two major physiographic provinces, where volcanic and granitic geology create conditions for deep groundwater circulation. Vegetation reflects the area's relatively generous moisture regime for Nevada, with sagebrush and juniper communities adapted to cold winters. The surrounding landscape shows characteristics of both mountain foothills and basin topography, with elevations that place it in a zone of increased precipitation compared to lower desert basins.
Historical documentation for this spring is limited in the available records. The generic designation "SPRING" suggests it lacked a distinctive Indigenous or settler name that survived into modern mapping efforts. The spring's location near the tiny community of Smith indicates the area saw settlement activity, likely related to ranching or mining operations that characterized Lyon County's development in the late 19th century.
Visit in late spring or early fall when temperatures moderate. Snow accumulation from November through March can make the 2,000-foot walk from the road more challenging. Carry water and sun protection despite the relatively cool average temperatures. The short walk classification indicates straightforward terrain, but verify current land access as ownership patterns in this transitional zone can be complex.