At 187°F, the source water at Crystal 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:Oquirrh Mountains.jpg — cc by-sa 3.0
Crystal Hot Springs near Bluffdale emerges at an extraordinary 187°F, ranking among Utah's absolute hottest thermal springs, though the 33°C USGS measurement suggests significant cooling occurs before standardized sampling.
Located at 4,455 feet elevation in Salt Lake County's Jordan River valley, the spring sits 120 meters from roads in terrain between the Wasatch Mountains to the east and the Oquirrh Range to the west. This valley setting supports suburban development, agriculture, and scattered natural areas with 19.6 inches of precipitation and 49.4 inches of snow annually. The spring's extreme temperature indicates substantial depth of circulation through the regional fault system that produces numerous thermal features along the Wasatch Front.
History of Crystal Hot Springs
Crystal Hot Springs has operated as a commercial recreation facility since the early 20th century, developed for swimming pools and soaking. The extreme heat required extensive cooling systems to create safe bathing temperatures. The site became a popular regional destination, reflecting Utah's long tradition of commercial hot spring resorts. Note that the Wikipedia entry references a different Crystal Springs in Nevada, indicating potential data matching errors.
The spring operates as a developed commercial facility with pools and infrastructure; verify current hours and admission. The 187°F source temperature makes direct contact with undiluted water dangerous. The site's development eliminates primitive thermal spring experience but provides safe, temperature-controlled access. Dogwood Day Use area in Big Cottonwood Canyon, 19.1 kilometers away, offers picnicking. The facility is accessible year-round, with outdoor pools most popular in summer despite the hot spring source maintaining consistent temperature.
Is Crystal Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Crystal Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
27°Jan
32°Feb
41°Mar
48°Apr
58°May
72°Jun
80°Jul
78°Aug
68°Sep
53°Oct
40°Nov
28°Dec
Annual Precip: 19.6 inAnnual Snow: 49.4 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 27°F · Water 187°F · +160° contrast
DecemberAir 28°F · Water 187°F · +159° contrast
FebruaryAir 32°F · Water 187°F · +155° contrast
January offers 53°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
91.4°F
(33.0°C)Measured May 27, 1958
Water ChemistrySampled 1958-05-27
The water at Crystal Hot Springs is neutral (pH 7.2). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Dogwood Day Use Picnic Area is just 2 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon, conveniently close to Salt Lake City. Big Cottonwood Creek runs alongside the site. Visitors enjoy fishing, hiking and biking.Recreation
Big Cottonwood Creek is stocked for trout fishing and is a favorite among local fly-fisherman. Additionally, many hiking and mountain biking trailheads are located in the canyon.Facilities
Dogwood offers several group picnic sites, all with tables, campfire rings and grills. Parki...
USGS Quad: JORDAN NARROWS 7.5 · PP 492: 13.0 · NOAA: 9.0 · AMS Map: SALT LAKE CITY
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Crystal Hot Springs?
Crystal Hot Springs has a water temperature of 187°F (86°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Crystal Hot Springs located?
Crystal Hot Springs is located in Salt Lake County, Utah at 4,455 feet elevation, near Bluffdale. Coordinates: 40.4880°N, 111.9110°W.
How do I get to Crystal Hot Springs?
Crystal Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (395 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Crystal Hot Springs?
Yes, Dogwood Day Use is located nearby (11.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Crystal Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.2 (neutral).
Is it safe to soak at Crystal Hot Springs?
The water at Crystal Hot Springs reaches 187°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 Crystal Hot Springs crowded?
Crystal Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Crystal Hot Springs?
Essentials for Crystal Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, 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.
