Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island

Aleutians West Census Area County, Alaska · Near Dutch Harbor
52.0420°N, 176.1080°W · 2,514 ft
2,514 ft Restricted Backcountry US Fish and Wildlife Service

Great Sitkin Island's hot springs occupy upper volcanic slopes at 2,514 feet within Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, where the US Fish and Wildlife Service maintains permanent protection and restricts public access. These springs exist in pristine habitat 20.3 miles from any road in extreme backcountry.

Location
267 miles from Dutch Harbor, AK

The springs sit on the upper mountainous terrain of an active volcano, surrounded by tundra and volcanic features. Water emerges hot against a landscape of sparse vegetation and exposed rock, with views across the Aleutian archipelago. The setting is dramatically isolated, with harsh coastal weather creating a landscape of raw geological power and complete remoteness.

Access is restricted and requires special permits from US Fish and Wildlife Service to protect critical habitat. Only authorized research expeditions may visit. The extreme location (32.7 km from roads) demands expert mountaineering and maritime skills. Winter conditions are severe (79.3 inches annual snow). Do not attempt without official permission.

History of Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island

Great Sitkin is an active stratovolcano with a history of eruptions, most recently in 1974. The hot springs result from ongoing geothermal activity within the volcanic system. The island lies within the Aleutian volcanic arc, a region of intense crustal activity where the Pacific Plate subducts beneath North America.

Monthly Climate
25°
Jan
26°
Feb
26°
Mar
28°
Apr
31°
May
34°
Jun
38°
Jul
41°
Aug
39°
Sep
35°
Oct
31°
Nov
27°
Dec
Annual Precip: 48.7 in Annual Snow: 79.3 in
Current Conditions
39°F
Light Rain ENE 33.2 mph 93% Good soaking weather
Thursday 34° Low 32° Light Rain then Chance Rain And Snow 81% precip
Friday 34° Low 31° Chance Light Rain then Chance Rain Showers 41% precip
Saturday 34° Low 30° Chance Snow Showers 35% precip
Sunday 36° Low 31° Snow Showers then Rain And Snow Showers 98% precip
Monday 35° Low 33° Rain And Snow Showers 98% precip
Where to Stay

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Temperature
No data recorded
Avg Air Temp 32°F
Access
Restricted
Road Access Backcountry
Distance to Road 20.3 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency US Fish and Wildlife Service
Designation National Wildlife Refuge
Unit Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge
Manager US Fish and Wildlife Service
Protection 1 - Permanent protection, natural state
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island located?
Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island is located in Aleutians West Census Area, Alaska at 2,514 feet elevation, near Dutch Harbor. Coordinates: 52.0420°N, 176.1080°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island?
Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island has Backcountry road access (20.3 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island free to visit?
Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island has Restricted access. It is managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island?
Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island crowded?
Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island 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 Springs On Great Sitkin Island?
Essentials for Hot Springs On Great Sitkin Island: 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.