Poulsen Spring (Salt) emerges at 72°F just 5.6 meters from South East Promontory Road in Box Elder County, running 19.2 degrees above the 52.8°F annual average in agricultural lowlands near Tremonton. The parenthetical designation refers to documented saline chemistry showing 3,750 mg/L total dissolved solids, with 1,950 mg/L chloride and 1,180 mg/L sodium creating distinctly salty water from deep circulation through sedimentary aquifers. Recent USGS measurements recorded 22.2°C and pH 7.7.
The spring flows at 4,250 feet elevation in the flat to gently rolling terrain north of the Great Salt Lake, where irrigated farmland dominates the landscape for miles in all directions. The Promontory Range rises to the west, while the Wasatch Mountains form the eastern horizon. This semi-arid environment receives just 14.4 inches of precipitation and 24.3 inches of snow annually, requiring extensive irrigation infrastructure to support the region's agricultural economy based on hay, grain, and sugar beets.
History of Poulsen Spring (Salt)
The spring carries the name of a local landowner, following the common pattern of naming thermal features for the property owners on whose land they emerged. The broader Tremonton area developed as a sugar beet and grain farming center after Mormon settlement in the 1850s, with the spring likely serving livestock watering and possibly household uses before modern municipal water systems.
Exceptional roadside access makes the spring visible without leaving the vehicle, though private land considerations may limit direct approach. The modest temperature and high salinity make this a feature for observation rather than bathing. The low elevation and light snowfall allow year-round access, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and winter cold snaps dropping below zero. No developed facilities exist at the spring itself.
Is Poulsen Spring (Salt) worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Poulsen Spring (Salt) is well suited for easy day trips and mineral-rich therapeutic bathing.
Annual Precip: 14.4 in
Annual Snow: 24.3 in
January
Air 26°F · Water 72°F · +46° contrast
December
Air 29°F · Water 72°F · +43° contrast
February
Air 31°F · Water 72°F · +41° contrast
January offers 55°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
72.0°F
(22.2°C)
Measured Mar 23, 1966
The water at Poulsen Spring (Salt) is slightly alkaline (pH 7.7) with 3750 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
21 miles from Tremonton, UT
USGS Quad: EAST PROMONTORY 7.5 · NOAA: 10.0 · AMS Map: BRIGHAM CITY
What is the water temperature at Poulsen Spring (Salt)?
Poulsen Spring (Salt) has a water temperature of 72°F (22°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Poulsen Spring (Salt) located?
Poulsen Spring (Salt) is located in Box Elder County, Utah at 4,250 feet elevation, near Tremonton. Coordinates: 41.4490°N, 112.4420°W.
How do I get to Poulsen Spring (Salt)?
Poulsen Spring (Salt) has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being South East Promontory Road (18 ft from the road).
What minerals are in the water at Poulsen Spring (Salt)?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 7.7 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 3,750 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Poulsen Spring (Salt)?
Poulsen Spring (Salt) 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 Poulsen Spring (Salt) crowded?
Poulsen Spring (Salt) 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 Poulsen Spring (Salt)?
Essentials for Poulsen Spring (Salt): swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.