Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring

Eureka County County, Nevada · Near Eureka
38.6980°N, 116.4350°W · 6,552 ft
106°F 6,552 ft Short Walk

Upper Warm Spring, also known as Warm Spring, emerges at 106°F in Eureka County at 6,552 feet elevation. Located 558 meters from the nearest road, the spring requires a substantial walk to reach this thermal feature that flows 56 degrees above ambient temperature with alkaline pH of 8.1.

The spring occupies mid-elevation terrain at 6,552 feet in central Nevada's basin and range country, where pinyon-juniper woodland grades into sagebrush communities. Annual precipitation totals 10.3 inches with substantial snowfall averaging 40.3 inches, supporting scattered tree cover and shrubland. Recent USGS measurements document water at 41°C with moderate mineralization at 267 milligrams per liter total dissolved solids.

History of Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring

The dual naming reflects local usage where 'Warm Spring' served as the general reference while 'Upper Warm Spring' distinguished this feature from other thermal springs in the Eureka district. The spring likely provided water for livestock operations that spread across these uplands during Eureka County's ranching expansion in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Plan for a half-kilometer approach hike across open range terrain that may be steep or rocky in sections. Visit from late spring through fall, as winter snow can persist into May at this elevation. The 106-degree water temperature and alkaline chemistry make this unsuitable for direct contact. Eureka provides services approximately 30 kilometers north.

Is Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking.
Monthly Climate
30°
Jan
30°
Feb
38°
Mar
46°
Apr
55°
May
69°
Jun
75°
Jul
74°
Aug
65°
Sep
52°
Oct
40°
Nov
29°
Dec
Annual Precip: 10.3 in Annual Snow: 40.3 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 29°F · Water 106°F · +77° contrast
January Air 30°F · Water 106°F · +76° contrast
February Air 30°F · Water 106°F · +76° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature 105.8°F (41.0°C) Measured Aug 03, 1967
Water Chemistry Sampled 1967-08-03

The water at Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 8.1) with 267 mg/L total dissolved solids.

pH 8.1 Slightly Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 40 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 12 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 12 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 38 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 4 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: UPPER FISH LAKE 7.5 · NOAA: 4.0 · AMS Map: TONOPAH
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring?
Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring has a water temperature of 106°F (41°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring located?
Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring is located in Eureka County, Nevada at 6,552 feet elevation, near Eureka. Coordinates: 38.6980°N, 116.4350°W.
How do I get to Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring?
Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring has Short Walk road access (0.3 mi from the road).
What minerals are in the water at Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.1 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 267 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring?
Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded 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 Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring crowded?
Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring?
Essentials for Upper Warm Spring, Warm Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
106°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 106°F (41°C)
Avg Air Temp 50°F
Above Ambient +56°F
Perfect soaking weather March
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.3 mi