Baranof Warm Springs, Alaska
This thermal feature on eastern Baranof Island represents the same geothermal field as its neighbor to the south, emerging at 75 feet elevation 20 miles east of Sitka. The springs characterize the settlement of Baranof Warm Springs, a seasonal community sustained by these thermal resources in the isolated Alexander Archipelago.
The springs flow from Baranof Island's eastern slope into a landscape dominated by the Tongass National Forest. Water chemistry matches nearby springs with alkaline pH of 9.4 and total dissolved solids of 268 milligrams per liter, featuring sodium at 48 milligrams per liter and sulfate at 28 milligrams per liter. The combination of forest and coast creates a remote setting where the community clusters around thermal features.
The geothermal system reflects tectonic processes active throughout the Alexander Archipelago. The springs heated groundwater emerges through regional fault systems, supporting the settlement of Baranof Warm Springs which is occasionally referred to simply as Baranof. The location's thermal resources have sustained human activity in this remote corner of Southeast Alaska.
Accessible by boat only from Sitka, requiring several hours' travel across open water. The Baranof Lake Cabin provides nearby lodging accessed by floatplane. Best visited June through October during seasonal settlement activity and more stable weather. Winter travel is possible but weather-dependent and challenging.
Is Baranof Warm Springs, Alaska worth visiting?
Best for
- Backpacking adventures
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Day trips with young children
The water at Baranof Warm Springs, Alaska is alkaline (pH 9.4) with 268 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Overview Baranof Lake Cabin sits on the shores of greenish-blue Baranof Lake on the southwestern edge of Baranof Lake, 20 air miles east of of Sitka, Alaska. The cabin is generally available June through October, and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska. This is a remote site. The cabin can be accessed by a 25-minute floatplane trip, weather permitting. In poor weather and low clouds, flying time can double, as flights must go the northern route around Baranof Islan...