Gas Rocks Hot Spring

Dillingham Census Area County, Alaska · Near Dillingham
57.8650°N, 156.4990°W · 20 ft
127°F 20 ft Backcountry

Gas Rocks Hot Spring reaches 127 degrees Fahrenheit despite extreme continental isolation 16 miles from the nearest jeep trail in the Bristol Bay region near Dillingham, Alaska.

Location

The spring emerges from low elevation (20 feet) into a subarctic coastal landscape where average air temperatures of 39 degrees make the 88-degree temperature contrast dramatically visible, with steam rising into cold maritime air.

Access requires backcountry navigation to a remote jeep trail. Heavy snow (78 inches annually) restricts access to brief summer windows, and visitors should prepare for exposed, windswept coastal terrain.

History of Gas Rocks Hot Spring

The spring's sodium-chloride chemistry (18,000 and 32,000 mg/L respectively) suggests deep circulation through marine-influenced sedimentary rocks typical of the Bristol Bay basin's geothermal systems.

Monthly Climate
24°
Jan
28°
Feb
26°
Mar
36°
Apr
44°
May
50°
Jun
55°
Jul
55°
Aug
50°
Sep
41°
Oct
32°
Nov
27°
Dec
Annual Precip: 42.6 in Annual Snow: 78.3 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 24°F · Water 127°F · +103° contrast
March Air 26°F · Water 127°F · +101° contrast
December Air 27°F · Water 127°F · +100° contrast
January offers 31°F more contrast than August
Current Conditions
Thursday 42° Low 28° Mostly Sunny 1% precip
Spring is +85° warmer
Friday 43° Low 31° Mostly Sunny then Slight Chance Rain Showers 24% precip
Spring is +84° warmer
Saturday 42° Low 30° Slight Chance Rain And Snow Showers 17% precip
Spring is +85° warmer
Sunday 38° Low 29° Slight Chance Snow Showers 23% precip
Spring is +89° warmer
Monday 39° Low 28° Chance Rain And Snow Showers 85% precip
Spring is +88° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1977-08-25

The water at Gas Rocks Hot Spring is slightly acidic (pH 5.9). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration).

pH 5.9 Slightly Acidic
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Calcium 1,500 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 460 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 18,000 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 140 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 32,000 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Where to Stay

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Temperature
127°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 127°F (53°C)
Avg Air Temp 39°F
Above Ambient +88°F
Great soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Backcountry
Nearest Road Jeep Trail
Distance to Road 15.9 mi
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
Gas Rocks Hot Spring has a water temperature of 127°F (53°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Gas Rocks Hot Spring located?
Gas Rocks Hot Spring is located in Dillingham Census Area, Alaska at 20 feet elevation, near Dillingham. Coordinates: 57.8650°N, 156.4990°W.
How do I get to Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
Gas Rocks Hot Spring has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Jeep Trail (15.9 mi from the road).
What minerals are in the water at Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 5.9 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
At 127°F, Gas Rocks Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Gas Rocks Hot Spring crowded?
Gas Rocks Hot Spring 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 Gas Rocks Hot Spring?
Essentials for Gas Rocks Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sturdy footwear for the approach, warm layers for before and after soaking, 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.
Sources: USGS NWIS