Unnamed Thermal Spring

Nye County County, Nevada · Near Tonopah
38.8600°N, 116.7380°W · 6,836 ft
Hot 6,836 ft Open Short Walk Bureau of Land Management

This unnamed thermal spring flows with unmeasured 'hot' temperature at 6,836 feet elevation in Nye County, where USGS analysis documented 35°C water with low mineralization at 187 mg/L total dissolved solids, accessible via 1,239-meter walk across BLM Tonopah Field Office land.

Located in high desert terrain receiving 9.4 inches of precipitation and 38.5 inches of snow annually, the spring emerges in landscape averaging 48.1°F where elevation creates four-season conditions. The mildly alkaline pH of 7.5 and minimal calcium of 6.4 mg/L with moderate sodium at 49 mg/L suggest relatively short circulation paths. Surrounding sagebrush-covered federal land extends across open basins subject to multiple-use management.

History of This Spring

Available records contain no name or development history for this spring near Tonopah. The designation as hot without specific temperature measurement indicates it was cataloged during surveys but not targeted for detailed study or recreational development.

The three-quarter-mile walk crosses open BLM land at nearly 7,000 feet elevation where winter snow can be substantial and summer sun intense. The relatively low temperature documented by USGS suggests warm rather than scalding water. Check with Tonopah Field Office regarding current land use before visiting.

Monthly Climate
27°
Jan
28°
Feb
35°
Mar
44°
Apr
53°
May
67°
Jun
74°
Jul
72°
Aug
63°
Sep
50°
Oct
37°
Nov
26°
Dec
Annual Precip: 9.4 in Annual Snow: 38.5 in
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 95.0°F (35.0°C) Measured May 07, 1967
Water Chemistry Sampled 1967-05-07

The water at This spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.5) with 187 mg/L total dissolved solids.

pH 7.5 Slightly Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 6 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 0 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 49 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 20 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 8 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: (MOSQUITO CREEK 7.5) · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: TONOPAH
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at ?
is classified as hot. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is located?
is located in Nye County, Nevada at 6,836 feet elevation, near Tonopah. Coordinates: 38.8600°N, 116.7380°W.
How do I get to ?
has Short Walk road access (0.8 mi from the road).
Is free to visit?
has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
What minerals are in the water at ?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.5 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 187 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at ?
is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is crowded?
sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to ?
Essentials for : swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
Hot
Warm Hot Boiling
Avg Air Temp 48°F
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.8 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency Bureau of Land Management
Designation PUB
Unit Tonopah Field Office
Manager Bureau of Land Management
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use