Red Hill Hot Spring
Red Hill Hot Spring emerges at 171°F near Monroe in Sevier County, creating one of Utah's hottest documented thermal features and running an astounding 121 degrees above the 50°F annual average. Located just 90 meters from the nearest road at 5,658 feet elevation, the spring's extreme temperature indicates deep circulation through basement rocks, likely reaching several thousand feet depth where geothermal gradients heat groundwater before rapid ascent preserves the high temperature at the surface.
The spring emerges in the volcanic terrain of central Utah, where Tertiary-age volcanic rocks associated with the Marysvale volcanic field cover older sedimentary formations. The landscape receives 15.0 inches of precipitation and 58.5 inches of snow annually, supporting sagebrush and mountain brush communities on the lower slopes, with pinyon-juniper and aspen at higher elevations. The Sevier Plateau rises to the east, while volcanic cones and flows characterize the terrain in multiple directions from the spring site.
Red Hill Hot Spring takes its name from the iron-stained volcanic rocks surrounding the discharge area, where mineral precipitation has created colorful deposits. The spring attracted attention from early settlers and later from geothermal exploration companies investigating the Marysvale region's energy potential. The area remains relatively undeveloped despite the exceptional geothermal resource, with no commercial bathing facilities at the spring itself.
Extreme water temperature makes direct contact dangerous, limiting visits to observation of this remarkable natural feature. The roadside location allows viewing from vehicles, though uneven terrain near the spring requires caution for closer approach. Adelaide Campground sits 26.8 kilometers away in Corn Creek Canyon, offering sites with access to Paiute ATV Trail and fishing for brown and rainbow trout. Winter snow accumulation of 58.5 inches can affect road access from December through March.
Is Red Hill Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
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...