Upper Warm Spring
Upper Warm Spring flows at 95°F within Toiyabe National Forest in Nye County, positioned just 24 meters from a roadside location near Tonopah. The water maintains neutral pH of 7.6 with moderate mineralization at 450 milligrams per liter total dissolved solids, running 43 degrees above ambient temperature.
The spring emerges in central Nevada terrain where Forest Service lands incorporate both mountain slopes and transitional basin areas. Annual precipitation totals 9.1 inches with 30 inches of snowfall, placing the site in a semi-arid zone. The surrounding landscape features characteristic pinyon-juniper woodland on higher slopes with sagebrush communities in more open areas, typical of Toiyabe National Forest's scattered land units across Nevada's basin and range country.
The 'Upper' designation distinguishes this spring from other warm springs in the drainage or district, suggesting a history of multiple thermal features being recognized and named by early Forest Service mappers or ranchers who utilized these water sources. Documentation of specific historical use remains limited in available records.
The roadside location allows year-round access when snow doesn't close approach roads, typically open April through November. Water chemistry indicates moderate mineral content but does not guarantee potability without treatment. The 95-degree temperature makes this suitable for observing thermal features rather than soaking. Tonopah provides services 24 kilometers away.
Is Upper Warm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Easy day trips
The water at Upper Warm Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.6) with 450 mg/L total dissolved solids.