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Buffalo Valley Hot Springs

Lander County County, Nevada · Near Battle Mountain

40.3680°N, 117.3270°W · 4,626 ft

174°F 4,626 ft Open Short Walk Bureau of Land Management

Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution

At 174°F, the source water at Buffalo Valley Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.

Buffalo Valley Hot Springs flows at 174°F on Bureau of Land Management public lands in Lander County at 4,626 feet elevation, requiring a 554-meter walk from the nearest road. Recent USGS analysis documented water with pH 6.8, sodium content of 300 mg/L, and sulfate levels of 83 mg/L, reflecting deep geothermal circulation through Nevada's basin-range aquifers.

The spring emerges in valley-floor terrain where sagebrush flats receive 9.9 inches of precipitation and 24.8 inches of snow annually. At mid-elevation in the Buffalo Valley drainage, alluvial sediments and volcanic bedrock underlie vegetation communities dominated by big sagebrush and greasewood. The Mount Lewis Field Office manages surrounding public lands for multiple uses.

History of Buffalo Valley Hot Springs

Buffalo Valley Hot Springs takes its name from the valley itself, historically grazed by cattle operations through the 19th and 20th centuries. Specific documentation of early use remains limited. The thermal feature continues to flow on unrestricted BLM lands accessible to the public.

Visit spring through fall when valley roads remain passable; winter snow and mud can close access routes. The half-kilometer walk crosses sagebrush terrain; wear sturdy boots. Water at 174°F requires substantial cooling before bathing is possible—bring containers and plan accordingly. No facilities exist; pack out all waste. High-clearance vehicles recommended for the final approach to trailhead parking.

Is Buffalo Valley Hot Springs worth visiting?

Best for

Observing powerful hot springs

Not ideal for

Casual soaking

Buffalo Valley Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs.

Monthly Climate

30°

Jan

35°

Feb

44°

Mar

52°

Apr

60°

May

73°

Jun

83°

Jul

81°

Aug

70°

Sep

56°

Oct

42°

Nov

30°

Dec

Annual Precip: 9.9 in Annual Snow: 24.8 in

Best Time to Visit

January Air 30°F · Water 174°F · +144° contrast

December Air 30°F · Water 174°F · +144° contrast

February Air 35°F · Water 174°F · +139° contrast

January offers 52°F more contrast than July

USGS Field Measurements

Recent Temperature 127.4°F (53.0°C) Measured Jan 01, 1978

Water Chemistry Sampled 1978-01-01

The water at Buffalo Valley Hot Springs is neutral (pH 6.8). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration).

pH 6.8 Neutral

pH influences mineral absorption through skin

Calcium 44 mg/L

May support bone density and joint health

Magnesium 9 mg/L

Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief

Sodium 300 mg/L

Supports circulation and skin hydration

Sulfate 83 mg/L

Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation

Chloride 29 mg/L

Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits

Iron 50 µg/L

Iron-rich springs may support circulation

Compare with other neutral springs →

Where to Stay

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

Glamping Hipcamp

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

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Explore more hot springs in Nevada →

What to Bring

Swimsuit & towel

Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water

Trash bag Pack out what you pack in

Water shoes Hot ground near source

Location

33 miles from Battle Mountain, NV

See all springs near Battle Mountain →

Get Directions View larger map →

References

USGS NWIS OpenStreetMap

USGS Quad: BUFFALO SPRINGS 15 · PP 492: 78.0 · Circ 790: 158.0 · NOAA: 13.0 · AMS Map: WINNEMUCCA

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the water temperature at Buffalo Valley Hot Springs?

Buffalo Valley Hot Springs has a water temperature of 174°F (79°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.

Where is Buffalo Valley Hot Springs located?

Buffalo Valley Hot Springs is located in Lander County, Nevada at 4,626 feet elevation, near Battle Mountain. Coordinates: 40.3680°N, 117.3270°W.

How do I get to Buffalo Valley Hot Springs?

Buffalo Valley Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.3 mi from the road).

Is Buffalo Valley Hot Springs free to visit?

Buffalo Valley Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.

What minerals are in the water at Buffalo Valley Hot Springs?

Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 6.8 (neutral).

Is it safe to soak at Buffalo Valley Hot Springs?

The water at Buffalo Valley Hot Springs reaches 174°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.

Is Buffalo Valley Hot Springs crowded?

Buffalo Valley Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.

What should I bring to Buffalo Valley Hot Springs?

Essentials for Buffalo Valley Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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.

Temperature

174°F

Warm Hot Boiling

Water Temp 174°F (79°C)

Avg Air Temp 55°F

Above Ambient +119°F

Great soaking conditions March

Access

Open

Road Access Short Walk

Distance to Road 0.3 mi

Land