Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs

Annette Island Reserve County, Alaska · Near Craig
55.3340°N, 133.6410°W · 570 ft
109°F 570 ft Open Backcountry US Forest Service Camping nearby (13.9 mi)

Dalton Hot Springs flows at 109°F through the temperate rainforest of the Tongass National Forest on Prince of Wales Island. The spring maintains an elevation of 570 feet and delivers a 65-degree temperature differential above the maritime climate's 44°F average air temperature.

Location

The thermal water emerges in coastal rainforest characterized by dense Sitka spruce and hemlock. The maritime setting brings consistent precipitation and moderate temperatures compared to Alaska's interior, creating a lush green landscape where the thermal spring stands out against cool forest streams and coastal weather patterns.

Access requires backcountry travel more than 10 miles from the Suemez Highway Road on Prince of Wales Island near Craig. Best visited June through September for stability. The Tongass National Forest manages these lands under open public access policy. Bring waterproof gear and expect wet conditions year-round with 87 inches of annual precipitation.

History of Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs

Dalton Hot Springs formed in mineral-rich bedrock beneath the Tongass, one of the nation's largest temperate rainforests. The spring's low mineral content (minimal calcium and magnesium, light sulfate at 20 mg/L) indicates relatively young thermal circulation in this geologically active region managed by the US Forest Service.

Monthly Climate
38°
Jan
37°
Feb
38°
Mar
41°
Apr
45°
May
49°
Jun
52°
Jul
54°
Aug
52°
Sep
47°
Oct
42°
Nov
39°
Dec
Annual Precip: 86.9 in Annual Snow: 21.3 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 38°F · Water 109°F · +72° contrast
February Air 37°F · Water 109°F · +72° contrast
March Air 38°F · Water 109°F · +71° contrast
January offers 17°F more contrast than August
Current Conditions
46°F
Cloudy N 0.0 mph 76% Good soaking weather
Thursday 51° Low 46° Mostly Cloudy
Spring is +58° warmer
Friday 54° Low 47° Light Rain 100% precip
Spring is +55° warmer
Saturday 53° Low 50° Rain Showers 91% precip
Spring is +56° warmer
Sunday 51° Low 49° Rain Showers 100% precip
Spring is +58° warmer
Monday 51° Low 48° Chance Rain Showers 39% precip
Spring is +58° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1924-08-18

The water at Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs contains 156 mg/L total dissolved solids.

Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 4 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 2 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sulfate 20 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 8 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron 20 µg/L
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Point Amargura Cabin 13.9 mi away

Overview Point Amargura Cabin offers guests a unique lodging experience on San Fernando Island in southeastern Alaska. The remote site offers a scenic setting for fishing, hunting, beachcombing and wildlife viewing, all within the vicinity of the cabin. The site is accessible by boat or float plane at high tide. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.Recreation The location of the cabin is excellent for anglers. Pi...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
109°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 109°F (43°C)
Avg Air Temp 44°F
Above Ambient +65°F
Great soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Backcountry
Nearest Road Suemez Highway Road
Distance to Road 10.5 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency US Forest Service
Designation National Forest
Unit Tongass National Forest
Manager US Forest Service
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs?
Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs has a water temperature of 109°F (43°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs located?
Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs is located in Annette Island Reserve, Alaska at 570 feet elevation, near Craig. Coordinates: 55.3340°N, 133.6410°W.
How do I get to Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs?
Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Suemez Highway Road (10.5 mi from the road).
Is Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs free to visit?
Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs?
Yes, Point Amargura Cabin is located nearby (13.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. Total dissolved solids measure 156 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs?
Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs crowded?
Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs requires a hike or off-road travel, which naturally limits crowds. You'll generally find fewer visitors on weekdays and outside peak season.
What should I bring to Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs?
Essentials for Dalton (Craig) Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sturdy footwear for the approach, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS