Livingston Warm Springs
Livingston Warm Springs flows at 73°F within the Six-Mile State Wildlife Area at 5,727 feet elevation, occupying permanently protected conservation lands with restricted public access. The spring emerges 103 meters from Service Berry Road, requiring a short walk through the wildlife area managed by Utah's Division of Wildlife Resources. Water temperature runs 22.9°F above the 50.1°F annual average in this high Sanpete Valley setting.
The spring occupies riparian habitat along the foothills where the Wasatch Plateau descends into the Sanpete Valley near Manti. At this elevation, juniper and sagebrush transition to wetland vegetation sustained by the thermal discharge. The wildlife area protects critical habitat for waterfowl and mammals, with the spring contributing to year-round water availability. Winter brings over 51 inches of snow to these highlands, while summer temperatures moderate with 13.5 inches of annual precipitation distributed across the seasons.
The Livingston family name reflects early Mormon settlement patterns in the Sanpete Valley, though specific documentation of the spring's namesake remains sparse. The designation as state wildlife area came through conservation programs recognizing thermal springs as habitat anchors in otherwise dry landscapes. Management shifted to the Division of Wildlife Resources to maintain ecological values. Current restricted access reflects wildlife protection priorities rather than recreation emphasis.
Check Division of Wildlife Resources regulations before visiting, as seasonal closures protect nesting birds and wildlife. The short walk from Service Berry Road requires standard hiking boots. Moderate water temperature suits wildlife observation more than bathing. Visit during fall when waterfowl migrate through the area and access restrictions typically ease. Bring binoculars for bird watching along the thermal wetland margins.
Is Livingston Warm Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Manti Community Campground is just 7 miles east of Manti, Utah next to Yearns Reservoir at an elevation of 7,400 feet. Visitors enjoy fishing, canoeing and exploring local trails. Accessible by dirt road, no high clearance needed. Recreation Canoeing and fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout are popular activities on the small but scenic man-made reservoir. A short, easy trail traverses around Yearns Reservoir with fishing access points on the north, west, and south sides of the la...