At 162°F, the source water at Walti Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:M 3911604 sw 11 060 20190825.tif — public domain
Walti Hot Springs emerges at 162°F in Eureka County, positioned 406 meters from the nearest road and requiring a substantial walk to reach. Recent USGS analysis shows water at 72°C with acidic pH of 6.5 and balanced mineral content including calcium at 56 milligrams per liter, running 112 degrees above ambient temperature.
The spring occupies central Nevada terrain at approximately 6,000 feet elevation, where annual precipitation totals 10.9 inches and snowfall averages 38.4 inches. The surrounding landscape features characteristic Great Basin topography with sagebrush-grassland communities, scattered pinyon-juniper on slopes, and rocky outcrops typical of Eureka County's basin and range structure. The spring's discharge creates localized riparian growth that contrasts with drier upland vegetation.
History of Walti Hot Springs
The Walti name likely references a ranching family or mining claim holder who operated in this district during Eureka County's development period in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The spring's high temperature and distinctive acidic chemistry suggest deep circulation through fault systems, though no commercial geothermal development has occurred at this remote location.
Exercise extreme caution approaching the spring due to 162-degree water temperatures that cause immediate burns. The 406-meter walk crosses open terrain that may be steep or rocky. Visit from late spring through fall, avoiding winter snow and spring mud. The acidic water chemistry and high temperature make this unsuitable for bathing. Eureka provides services approximately 40 kilometers away.
Is Walti Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Walti Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs.
Monthly Climate
27°Jan
29°Feb
38°Mar
46°Apr
55°May
69°Jun
78°Jul
76°Aug
66°Sep
52°Oct
38°Nov
26°Dec
Annual Precip: 10.9 inAnnual Snow: 38.4 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 26°F · Water 162°F · +136° contrast
JanuaryAir 27°F · Water 162°F · +135° contrast
FebruaryAir 29°F · Water 162°F · +133° contrast
December offers 52°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
161.6°F
(72.0°C)Measured Jan 01, 1974
Water ChemistrySampled 1974-01-01
The water at Walti Hot Springs is slightly acidic (pH 6.5).
What is the water temperature at Walti Hot Springs?
Walti Hot Springs has a water temperature of 162°F (72°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Walti Hot Springs located?
Walti Hot Springs is located in Eureka County, Nevada, near Eureka. Coordinates: 39.9040°N, 116.5880°W.
How do I get to Walti Hot Springs?
Walti Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.3 mi from the road).
What minerals are in the water at Walti Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 6.5 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Walti Hot Springs?
The water at Walti Hot Springs reaches 162°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe 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 Walti Hot Springs crowded?
Walti Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Walti Hot Springs?
Essentials for Walti 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.