Melozi (Melozitna) Springs

Kenai Peninsula Borough County, Alaska · Near Nikiski
65.1290°N, 154.6920°W · 900 ft
900 ft Open Backcountry Bureau of Land Management

Melozi Springs reach 129 degrees Fahrenheit (54°C) on Bureau of Land Management land where public access remains open despite their backcountry location. These springs combine high temperature with alkaline chemistry (pH 8.4) and low calcium content, creating distinctive mineral characteristics.

Location

The 56.5-kilometer trek from the Lena Loop Road through boreal wilderness defines the Melozi experience. Standing at 900 feet elevation, the springs sit in a landscape averaging 29 degrees Fahrenheit annually with nearly 61 inches of snow, surrounded by the vast emptiness of central Alaska's public lands.

Reaching these springs requires genuine expedition planning and wilderness skills. Visitors must traverse 35 miles of backcountry from the nearest road, typically requiring multi-day trips during summer months. Winter access becomes significantly more challenging in this remote boreal region.

History of Melozi (Melozitna) Springs

The springs' name derives from the Melozitna River system that drains this region. Formed through geothermal processes in the Central Yukon Field Office, they reflect Alaska's widespread geothermal activity across interior plateau terrain. The BLM designation permits multiple-use management while maintaining public access.

Monthly Climate
Jan
Feb
13°
Mar
29°
Apr
45°
May
57°
Jun
59°
Jul
53°
Aug
43°
Sep
29°
Oct
Nov
Dec
Annual Precip: 24.4 in Annual Snow: 61.3 in
Current Conditions
25°F
Light Snow WSW 12.4 mph 74% Good soaking weather
Thursday 36° Low 22° Chance Snow Showers 43% precip
Friday 40° Low 26° Partly Sunny then Chance Snow Showers 36% precip
Saturday 41° Low 31° Chance Snow Showers 39% precip
Sunday 45° Low 36° Chance Rain And Snow Showers 28% precip
Monday 47° Low 38° Chance Rain And Snow Showers 31% precip
Water Chemistry Sampled 1976-07-09

The water at Melozi (Melozitna) Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.4).

pH 8.4 Slightly Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Calcium 4 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 0 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 130 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 61 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 91 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Where to Stay

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Temperature
No data recorded
Avg Air Temp 29°F
Access
Open
Road Access Backcountry
Nearest Road Lena Loop
Distance to Road 35.1 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency Bureau of Land Management
Designation PUB
Unit Central Yukon Field Office
Manager Bureau of Land Management
Protection 3 - Protected, subject to extractive use
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Melozi (Melozitna) Springs located?
Melozi (Melozitna) Springs is located in Kenai Peninsula Borough, Alaska at 900 feet elevation, near Nikiski. Coordinates: 65.1290°N, 154.6920°W.
How do I get to Melozi (Melozitna) Springs?
Melozi (Melozitna) Springs has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Lena Loop (35.1 mi from the road).
Is Melozi (Melozitna) Springs free to visit?
Melozi (Melozitna) Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
What minerals are in the water at Melozi (Melozitna) Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 8.4 (slightly alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Melozi (Melozitna) Springs?
Melozi (Melozitna) Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Melozi (Melozitna) Springs crowded?
Melozi (Melozitna) 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 Melozi (Melozitna) Springs?
Essentials for Melozi (Melozitna) Springs: 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.
Sources: USGS NWIS