Unnamed Thermal Spring
This unnamed 72°F spring emerges in Tooele County's desert basin, flowing 16.4 degrees above the 55.6°F ambient temperature. Located at 4,275 feet elevation near Grantsville, it sits 291 meters from the nearest road, requiring a short walk across arid terrain. The spring lies west of the Stansbury Mountains in one of Utah's drier landscapes.
The spring occupies the floor of the Tooele Valley, a broad basin receiving just 12.1 inches of annual precipitation and 24.3 inches of snow. Vegetation consists of shadscale, greasewood, and scattered rabbitbrush adapted to alkaline soils. The Stansbury Range rises immediately east, reaching over 11,000 feet at Deseret Peak. Surrounding land is predominantly BLM-managed rangeland with scattered private parcels. The Great Salt Lake lies 20 miles north.
No name has been recorded for this spring in historical or modern sources. Documentation of Indigenous use by Goshute peoples in this valley exists broadly but not for this specific site. Early Mormon settlers established Grantsville in 1850, utilizing valley springs for agriculture. This particular source lacks recorded development history.
Visit September through May when temperatures are moderate; summer heat exceeds 95°F regularly. The 291-meter walk from parking crosses open desert—bring sun protection and water. Loop Campground in South Willow Canyon, 17.4 kilometers southeast at 7,400 feet, provides camping and access to Deseret Peak Wilderness. High-clearance vehicle useful for approach roads.
Is this spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Loop Campground is located southwest of Grantsville, Utah, in South Willow Canyon at an elevation of 7,400 feet. It’s located in the Stansbury Range where visitors enjoy exploring local trails. Recreation The multi-use Stansbury Front Trail and Medina Flat Trail begin across the road from the entrance, offering access to the rugged Deseret Peak Wilderness. Willow Creek offers rainbow and brown trout fishing. Facilities This campground has 9 single sites and 1 double site and has vaul...