Hot Spring Near Fish Bay

Sitka City and Borough County, Alaska · Near Sitka
57.3480°N, 135.3850°W · 700 ft
117°F 700 ft Open Backcountry US Forest Service Camping nearby (7.3 mi)

This spring produces 117-degree water rich in geothermal heat 75 degrees above the surrounding environment, emerging from the temperate rainforest at 700 feet elevation in southeastern Alaska.

Location

The spring flows into one of North America's most moisture-laden regions where annual precipitation exceeds 84 inches and snow totals 106 inches yearly, creating lush undergrowth and salmon streams.

Access requires 12 miles of hiking from Eagle River Road, with excellent weather conditions in late summer and early fall. Allan Point Cabin provides a nearby base for extended exploration.

History of Hot Spring Near Fish Bay

The Tongass National Forest protects this thermal feature within a landscape shaped by glacial dynamics and volcanic activity millions of years ago. Low calcium and magnesium concentrations suggest significant geothermal water alteration.

Monthly Climate
29°
Jan
30°
Feb
32°
Mar
38°
Apr
46°
May
52°
Jun
55°
Jul
55°
Aug
50°
Sep
42°
Oct
34°
Nov
31°
Dec
Annual Precip: 84.1 in Annual Snow: 106.4 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 29°F · Water 117°F · +88° contrast
February Air 30°F · Water 117°F · +87° contrast
March Air 32°F · Water 117°F · +86° contrast
January offers 26°F more contrast than August
Current Conditions
48°F
Light Rain SSE 20.7 mph 87% Good soaking weather
Saturday 52° Low 41° Showers And Thunderstorms 100% precip
Spring is +65° warmer
Sunday 50° Low 41° Rain 100% precip
Spring is +67° warmer
Monday 53° Low 39° Chance Light Rain 33% precip
Spring is +64° warmer
Tuesday 56° Low 40° Chance Light Rain 52% precip
Spring is +61° warmer
Wednesday 52° Low 42° Light Rain 100% precip
Spring is +65° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1915-06-26

The water at Hot Spring Near Fish Bay contains 345 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in iron (iron-rich springs may support circulation).

Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 13 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 2 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sulfate 24 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 5 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron 750 µg/L
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Allan Point Cabin 7.3 mi away

Overview Allan Point Cabin is located on Halleck Island in upper Nakwasina Sound, about 16 miles north of Sitka, Alaska in the Tongass National Forest. The two-story cabin was built in 1993 by volunteers. It has a large front deck that overlooks Nakwasina Sound and is an excellent base for saltwater fishing and deer hunting. The site can be accessed only by float plane or boat, weather permitting. Travel time from Sitka is 10 minutes by float plane or 30 minutes by boat. Visitors are respons...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
117°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 117°F (47°C)
Avg Air Temp 41°F
Above Ambient +76°F
Great soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Backcountry
Nearest Road Eagle River Road - USFS
Distance to Road 12.2 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 Hot Spring Near Fish Bay?
Hot Spring Near Fish Bay has a water temperature of 117°F (47°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Spring Near Fish Bay located?
Hot Spring Near Fish Bay is located in Sitka City and Borough, Alaska at 700 feet elevation, near Sitka. Coordinates: 57.3480°N, 135.3850°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring Near Fish Bay?
Hot Spring Near Fish Bay has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Eagle River Road - USFS (12.2 mi from the road).
Is Hot Spring Near Fish Bay free to visit?
Hot Spring Near Fish Bay has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Hot Spring Near Fish Bay?
Yes, Allan Point Cabin is located nearby (7.3 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Spring Near Fish Bay?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. Total dissolved solids measure 345 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring Near Fish Bay?
At 117°F, Hot Spring Near Fish Bay is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Spring Near Fish Bay crowded?
Hot Spring Near Fish Bay 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 Hot Spring Near Fish Bay?
Essentials for Hot Spring Near Fish Bay: 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. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.
Sources: USGS NWIS