Unnamed Thermal Spring
Emerging at 153°F with recent USGS measurements confirming 70°C, this spring near Lovelock requires a 2,550-foot walk to reach water flowing 99 degrees above ambient temperature at 4,004 feet elevation. Sodium-sulfate chemistry with pH 8.8 characterizes the alkaline thermal water on BLM's Black Rock Field Office property.
Located at 4,004 feet in Nevada's Pershing County where annual precipitation totals just 8.2 inches with 17.8 inches of snow, the spring flows in extreme Great Basin aridity supporting mean air temperatures of 53.8°F. The landscape consists of sagebrush desert on federal public lands designated for multiple uses including potential mineral extraction under Bureau of Land Management administration.
No documented name, Indigenous use, or development history exists for this spring. Water chemistry analysis shows 170 mg/L sodium, 110 mg/L sulfate, and 57 mg/L chloride with low calcium at 1.9 mg/L and iron at 10 µg/L, indicating deep circulation through volcanic aquifers.
Half-mile walk across desert terrain requires water and sun protection. Extreme temperature of 153°F prohibits direct contact. Spring or fall visits avoid summer heat. Alkaline water chemistry may cause mineral staining. Verify BLM access before visiting.
Is this spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
The water at This spring is alkaline (pH 8.8).