At 185°F, the source water at Thermo 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.
This Thermo Hot Springs vent flows at 185 degrees Fahrenheit near Milford, representing one of Utah's hottest thermal discharges with water emerging 131 degrees above ambient air temperature. Located 688 meters from the nearest road at 5,045 feet elevation, this spring produces sulfate-dominant water with 1,500 milligrams per liter of total dissolved solids and a pH of 8.1.
The vent emerges in open Escalante Desert terrain at 5,045 feet elevation, positioned in the basin-and-range landscape of western Beaver County. The surrounding environment receives 8.6 inches of annual precipitation and 23.1 inches of snow, supporting minimal vegetation dominated by salt-tolerant shrubs and grasses adapted to alkaline soils. Exposed basin sediments and scattered volcanic rocks characterize the immediate area, while the Mineral Mountains form the eastern backdrop across the valley floor.
History of Thermo Hot Springs
This represents one of multiple vents in the Thermo Hot Springs geothermal field, a thermal area that has attracted scientific and commercial interest across decades due to exceptional heat output. The site saw geothermal exploration activities during the 20th century, though commercial power development never advanced beyond assessment phases. Current status reflects ongoing baseline monitoring by state and federal agencies tracking Utah's geothermal resources.
Extreme danger: 185-degree water causes instantaneous severe burns and steam vents present scalding hazards. The moderate walk crosses exposed desert requiring sun protection and adequate water. No safe bathing exists at this temperature; approach for observation only with extreme caution around vents. Visit during cooler months when desert heat moderates. Hanging Rock Campground offers developed facilities 28.6 kilometers distant along the Beaver River.
Is Thermo Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Thermo Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
29°Jan
33°Feb
44°Mar
52°Apr
61°May
75°Jun
80°Jul
79°Aug
69°Sep
55°Oct
42°Nov
29°Dec
Annual Precip: 8.6 inAnnual Snow: 23.1 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 29°F · Water 185°F · +157° contrast
DecemberAir 29°F · Water 185°F · +156° contrast
FebruaryAir 33°F · Water 185°F · +152° contrast
January offers 52°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
185.0°F
(85.0°C)Measured Oct 23, 1939
Water ChemistrySampled 1963-08-21
The water at Thermo Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.1) with 1500 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Hanging Rock Campground is located just off of Highway 21 between the towns of Beaver and Minerville, UT. The campground has six campsites all located alongside the scenic Beaver River. Along with the scenery that the river provides, it also offers what many consider to be the best fising in Beaver County.
Recreation
The Beaver River provides opportunity for year-round fishing. The Paiute ATV Trail and Beaver Bench Mountain Bike Trail System are located just down the road in Beaver,...
What is the water temperature at Thermo Hot Springs?
Thermo Hot Springs has a water temperature of 185°F (85°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Thermo Hot Springs located?
Thermo Hot Springs is located in Beaver County, Utah at 5,045 feet elevation, near Milford. Coordinates: 38.1860°N, 113.1970°W.
How do I get to Thermo Hot Springs?
Thermo Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.4 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Thermo Hot Springs?
Yes, Hanging Rock Campground is located nearby (17.8 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Thermo Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.1 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 1,500 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Thermo Hot Springs?
The water at Thermo Hot Springs reaches 185°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 Thermo Hot Springs crowded?
Thermo Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Thermo Hot Springs?
Essentials for Thermo 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.