Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait

Sitka City and Borough County, Alaska · Near Sitka
57.7710°N, 135.8200°W · 141 ft
100°F 141 ft Open Backcountry US Forest Service Camping nearby (6.1 mi)

Emerging at 100 degrees Fahrenheit with elevated salt and mineral content, this spring flows into the Tongass National Forest's dense coastal rainforest near Peril Strait, a major shipping and marine wildlife corridor.

Location

The spring's water contains 786 milligrams per liter of dissolved solids with notable sodium sulfate chemistry, reflecting deep geothermal sources. Dense rainforest covers steep terrain with frequent fog, heavy precipitation, and productive salmon streams.

Access requires 12 miles of backcountry hiking and water travel. Moser Island Cabin provides a nearby base for multi-day exploration. Visit during summer months when weather permits safe water travel and hiking.

History of Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait

Geochemical analysis reveals water at 38.5 degrees Celsius with substantial sodium and sulfate concentrations, indicating interaction with deep thermal systems. The thermal feature exists within a region of Tongass National Forest protections.

Monthly Climate
31°
Jan
31°
Feb
33°
Mar
40°
Apr
48°
May
54°
Jun
58°
Jul
58°
Aug
53°
Sep
44°
Oct
36°
Nov
33°
Dec
Annual Precip: 102.4 in Annual Snow: 191.8 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 31°F · Water 100°F · +69° contrast
February Air 31°F · Water 100°F · +69° contrast
March Air 33°F · Water 100°F · +67° contrast
January offers 27°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
37°F
N 0.0 mph 93% Good soaking weather
Thursday 54° Low 37° Mostly Cloudy 12% precip
Spring is +46° warmer
Friday 54° Low 37° Light Rain 75% precip
Spring is +46° warmer
Saturday 55° Low 41° Rain Showers 100% precip
Spring is +45° warmer
Sunday 52° Low 41° Rain Showers 100% precip
Spring is +48° warmer
Monday 52° Low 40° Rain Showers 100% precip
Spring is +48° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1915-06-29

The water at Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait contains 786 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits), and iron (iron-rich springs may support circulation).

Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 37 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 11 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 206 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 329 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 133 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron 1400 µg/L
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
Moser Island Cabin 6.1 mi away

Overview Moser Island Cabin sits on the northern shore of Moser Island in upper Hoonah Sound, 48 miles north of Sitka, Alaska. The wood cabin, built in 1991 by volunteers from Sitka, is available year-round and makes an excellent base for experiencing and exploring this corner of Alaska. This is a remote site. The cabin can be accessed only by floatplane or boat, weather permitting. From Sitka, it's a 30-minute plane ride or a two-hour boat ride. Visitors are responsible for their own travel...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Temperature
100°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 100°F (38°C)
Avg Air Temp 43°F
Above Ambient +57°F
Great soaking conditions May
Access
Open
Road Access Backcountry
Distance to Road 12.7 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 North Arm Peril Strait?
Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait has a water temperature of 100°F (38°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait located?
Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait is located in Sitka City and Borough, Alaska at 141 feet elevation, near Sitka. Coordinates: 57.7710°N, 135.8200°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait?
Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait has Backcountry road access (12.7 mi from the road).
Is Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait free to visit?
Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait?
Yes, Moser Island Cabin is located nearby (6.1 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. Total dissolved solids measure 786 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait?
Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait crowded?
Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait 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 North Arm Peril Strait?
Essentials for Hot Spring North Arm Peril Strait: 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