Dangerously Hot — Not Safe for Soaking
Sulphur Hot Springs reaches 205°F, far above safe soaking levels. Contact with this water will cause severe burns. Look for cooled downstream pools or view from a safe distance only.
File:2015-04-04 10 09 03 View south along Ruby Valley Road (Elko County Route 788) about 36.1 miles north of the White Pine County line in Ruby Valley, Nevada.jpg — cc by-sa 4.0
Sulphur Hot Springs emerges at 205 degrees Fahrenheit near Spring Creek in Elko County at 6,040 feet elevation, requiring a 384-meter walk to reach this powerful thermal system. Recent USGS measurements confirm 57 degrees Celsius water with chemistry showing 68 mg/L calcium, 16 mg/L magnesium, and 70 mg/L sodium. The water flows 157 degrees above ambient temperature. A pH of 7.1 indicates near-neutral water despite the sulfur designation.
The spring sits at 6,040 feet elevation in northeastern Nevada's mountain terrain, receiving 13 inches of annual precipitation and 48 inches of snow. The higher-elevation setting supports more vegetation than lower basin locations, with mountain mahogany and juniper appearing on surrounding slopes. Lamoille Creek flows through scenic Lamoille Canyon 8.7 km south, draining the Ruby Mountains. The spring emerges on foothill terrain above the valley floor. The landscape transitions from sagebrush-dominated lower slopes to mixed shrub communities at this elevation, with distant views across basin terrain.
History of Sulphur Hot Springs
The sulfur name references the spring's geothermal character, though actual sulfate content measures only 17 mg/L. Documentation of Indigenous use or early settlement history remains limited. The proximity to Spring Creek and Lamoille Canyon suggests potential awareness by ranchers and miners who worked the Ruby Mountain region. Current status appears undeveloped, maintaining natural discharge conditions.
Visit spring through fall when access roads remain passable; winter snow accumulation reaches 48 inches. The 384-meter walk crosses uneven ground requiring appropriate footwear. Water temperature at 205 degrees exceeds safe bathing limits. Terraces Campground in Lamoille Canyon 8.7 km away offers reservable sites with access to fishing on Lamoille Creek and multiple hiking trails. The 6,040-foot elevation demands attention to afternoon thunderstorms in summer.
Is Sulphur Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
Sulphur Hot Springs is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 13.0 in
Annual Snow: 48.0 in
January
Air 24°F · Water 205°F · +181° contrast
December
Air 24°F · Water 205°F · +181° contrast
February
Air 27°F · Water 205°F · +178° contrast
January offers 52°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
134.6°F
(57.0°C)
Measured Jan 01, 1978
The water at Sulphur Hot Springs is neutral (pH 7.1).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Overview
Terraces Overnight Group Area is a popular location for weddings, church activities, family reunions and company picnics. It is located in scenic Lamoille Canyon, 35 miles southeast of Elko, Nevada. Visitors enjoy fishing in Lamoille Creek and hiking on many local trails.
Recreation
Lamoille Creek runs just outside the picnic area and is a popular stream among fly-fishermen. The creek contains brook and wild rainbow trout.Lamoille Canyon offers numerous hiking and horseback riding t...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Terraces Campground Picnic Area
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
24 miles from Spring Creek, NV
USGS Quad: LAMOILLE 15 · Circ 790: 169.0 · NOAA: 6.0 · AMS Map: ELKO
What is the water temperature at Sulphur Hot Springs?
Sulphur Hot Springs has a water temperature of 205°F (96°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Sulphur Hot Springs located?
Sulphur Hot Springs is located in Elko County, Nevada at 6,040 feet elevation, near Spring Creek. Coordinates: 40.5850°N, 115.2850°W.
How do I get to Sulphur Hot Springs?
Sulphur Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Sulphur Hot Springs?
Yes, Terraces Campground Picnic Area is located nearby (5.4 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Sulphur Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.1 (neutral).
Is it safe to soak at Sulphur Hot Springs?
The water at Sulphur Hot Springs reaches 205°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 Sulphur Hot Springs crowded?
Sulphur Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Sulphur Hot Springs?
Essentials for Sulphur Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, 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.