Warm Ditch Spring
A 115-degree spring in Wasatch County's Heber Valley, emerging 67.8 degrees above ambient temperature just 64 meters from Jerry Gertsch Lane at 5,730 feet elevation. This hot spring represents one of the more thermally robust features in the Midway area, where numerous springs have supported recreation development. Roadside access makes this one of the region's most easily reached hot springs.
Set in the scenic Heber Valley surrounded by the Wasatch Range, the spring flows in an environment receiving substantial moisture—25.2 inches of precipitation and 105.5 inches of snow annually where average temperatures reach 47.2 degrees. The valley floor combines agricultural land, suburban development, and thermal spring features that have made Midway famous. Mount Timpanogos rises dramatically to the west while the Uinta Mountains extend eastward. The heavy snowfall supports winter recreation while creating lush summer conditions.
The "Warm Ditch" name suggests historical channeling for irrigation, a common practice in Heber Valley where thermal springs provided frost-free water for agriculture and livestock. Swiss immigrants settled Midway in the 1860s, developing the valley's thermal resources for bathing and heating. Many springs were piped into ditches serving farms, though development details for this specific feature remain undocumented. The area's thermal activity stems from deep circulation along Wasatch fault systems.
Visit year-round, though winter brings heavy snowfall that can complicate access despite the roadside location. The 115-degree temperature requires caution to avoid burns. Current land ownership and access permissions are not specified; verify before visiting. The nearby Homestead Crater and other commercial hot spring resorts offer developed soaking opportunities. Albion Basin Campground, 12.1 kilometers away at 9,500 feet, provides alpine camping with wildflower meadows and high-country hiking.
Is Warm Ditch Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Albion Basin Campground, just 15 miles from Sandy, Utah, is set among shady white pines and aspens in its beautiful namesake basin in Little Cottonwood Canyon at an elevation of 9,500 feet. Recreation Hiking and mountain biking are very popular activities. Hikers enjoy the path to Cecret Lake, which begins at the campground, as well as the Catherine Pass/Sunset Peak Trail just down the road. Mountain bikers often ride the Albion Basin Road and the trail to Germania Pass. Other trail...