The Hot Springs

Humboldt County County, Nevada · Near Winnemucca
41.4210°N, 117.3880°W · 4,470 ft
135°F 4,470 ft Short Walk
The Hot Springs
File:Inside sinter collar of Little Humboldt Hot Springs, Santa Rosa Mountains in the distance, Looking W-SW, Humboldt Co., NV - panoramio.jpg — cc by-sa 3.0

The Hot Springs flows at 135 degrees Fahrenheit near Winnemucca in Humboldt County at 4,470 feet elevation, located 132 meters from the nearest road. This thermal feature runs 82 degrees above ambient temperature. The name distinguishes it from other regional springs with descriptive rather than geographic designations. A short walk provides access to this moderately hot system.

The spring emerges in high desert terrain north of Winnemucca at 4,470 feet elevation, receiving 11 inches of annual precipitation and 26 inches of snow. The setting features sagebrush-dominated slopes typical of northern Nevada's Great Basin valleys. The landscape extends across semi-arid terrain with scattered vegetation adapted to alkaline soils. Distant mountain ranges frame the valley floor. Average annual air temperature of 52.6 degrees Fahrenheit creates moderate conditions compared to lower basin locations. The spring sits in rolling foothill country accessed via unmaintained roads.

History of The Hot Springs

The generic name The Hot Springs" suggests local usage rather than formal designation

likely applied by ranchers or travelers who encountered the thermal feature. No documented Indigenous name or early settlement history appears in available records. The spring's remote location indicates it remained largely undeveloped. Current status appears natural

Is The Hot Springs worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
The Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking.
Monthly Climate
28°
Jan
33°
Feb
42°
Mar
50°
Apr
59°
May
70°
Jun
81°
Jul
79°
Aug
68°
Sep
53°
Oct
40°
Nov
28°
Dec
Annual Precip: 11.0 in Annual Snow: 26.0 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 28°F · Water 135°F · +107° contrast
December Air 28°F · Water 135°F · +107° contrast
February Air 33°F · Water 135°F · +102° contrast
January offers 53°F more contrast than July
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes Hot ground near source
References
USGS Quad: HOT SPRINGS PEAK 15 · PP 492: 11.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: MCDERMITT
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at The Hot Springs?
The Hot Springs has a water temperature of 135°F (57°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is The Hot Springs located?
The Hot Springs is located in Humboldt County, Nevada at 4,470 feet elevation, near Winnemucca. Coordinates: 41.4210°N, 117.3880°W.
How do I get to The Hot Springs?
The Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (431 ft from the road).
Is it safe to soak at The Hot Springs?
At 135°F, The Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is The Hot Springs crowded?
The Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to The Hot Springs?
Essentials for The 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.
Temperature
135°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 135°F (57°C)
Avg Air Temp 53°F
Above Ambient +82°F
Great soaking conditions March
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 431 ft