At 169°F, the source water at Monroe (Cooper) 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.
Image via Wikidata
Monroe Hot Springs, operating as Mystic Hot Springs, emerges at 169°F—one of Utah's hottest thermal features—in the town of Monroe at 5,450 feet elevation. The spring runs an extraordinary 118.3°F above ambient temperatures, located just 8.7 meters from the nearest road. Water chemistry shows 2,760 mg/L total dissolved solids with sulfate at 932 mg/L and chloride at 625 mg/L, requiring cooling before bathing use.
The spring emerges at the base of the Sevier Plateau where it descends into the Sevier Valley near Monroe in Sevier County. Red and white mineral deposits from the thermal discharge create distinctive terraces visible across the landscape. The plateau rises to over 11,000 feet to the east, while the valley floor extends westward with the Sevier River draining north. Annual precipitation of 15.4 inches and snowfall of 59.8 inches support juniper-pinyon woodlands on surrounding slopes, transitioning to agricultural lands on the valley floor.
History of Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs
Historical accounts reference the spring under multiple names: Monroe Hot Springs after the town founded in 1864, and Cooper Hot Springs after a family associated with early development. The town took its name from James Monroe, fifth U.S. president. Settlers recognized the spring's exceptional temperature, using it for heating and bathing after cooling. Commercial development occurred by the early twentieth century. Current operators renamed it Mystic Hot Springs, developing pools and vintage bathtub installations on the mineral terraces. The spring continues as a private resort operation.
Visit year-round, though the 169°F source requires cooling in pools before entry. Spring and fall offer moderate air temperatures for the soaking pools, which range from 92-102°F. The facility operates as a commercial site with fees and camping available. Monroe's location on US-89 provides straightforward access. Winter brings snow that emphasizes the steam from thermal discharge. Combine with Fishlake National Forest access, 15 miles east, for high-elevation hiking and fishing.
Is Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
27°Jan
30°Feb
38°Mar
46°Apr
56°May
72°Jun
77°Jul
75°Aug
66°Sep
52°Oct
39°Nov
27°Dec
Annual Precip: 15.4 inAnnual Snow: 59.8 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 27°F · Water 169°F · +142° contrast
DecemberAir 27°F · Water 169°F · +142° contrast
FebruaryAir 30°F · Water 169°F · +139° contrast
January offers 50°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
108.0°F
(42.2°C)Measured May 17, 1966
Water ChemistrySampled 1966-05-17
The water at Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.6) with 2760 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
Overview
Adelaide Campground is located in Corn Creek Canyon on the south end of the Pahvant Mountain Range near Kanosh, Utah.Recreation
Corn Creek offers brown and rainbow trout fishing. Hiking and biking trails begin nearby, and the Paiute ATV trail can be easily accessed from the site.Facilities
The campground offers 1 group site which can accommodate 48 guests and up to 15 vehicles. 9 individual sites are also available. These sites can accommodate 6 to 8 guests and 2 vehicles. All of th...
What is the water temperature at Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs?
Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs has a water temperature of 169°F (76°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs located?
Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs is located in Sevier County, Utah at 5,450 feet elevation, near Monroe. Coordinates: 38.6330°N, 112.1070°W.
How do I get to Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs?
Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs has Roadside road access (29 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs?
Yes, Adelaide Campground is located nearby (16.5 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.6 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 2,760 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs?
The water at Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs reaches 169°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 Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs crowded?
Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Monroe (Cooper) Hot Springs?
Essentials for Monroe (Cooper) 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.
