Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring

Nye County, Nevada · Near Tonopah
38.5210°N, 116.3650°W · 5,673 ft
180°F 5,673 ft Short Walk
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution

At 180°F, the source water at Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring 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.

Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring flows at 180 degrees Fahrenheit in Nye County at 5,673 feet elevation, with USGS analysis confirming 67-degree Celsius temperature and total dissolved solids of 620 mg/L.

Location

The spring emerges 161.3 meters from the nearest road in high desert terrain south of Tonopah, where sagebrush and desert scrub vegetation dominate the landscape. The area receives 8.5 inches of annual precipitation and 26.8 inches of snow annually. The thermal waters create visible alteration and mineral deposits in the surrounding terrain, with steam plumes often visible in cooler weather.

The 180-degree temperature makes this spring extremely dangerous for contact; maintain safe distance from the discharge. Water chemistry shows calcium at 32 mg/L and magnesium at 8.5 mg/L, creating moderately mineralized conditions. The short walk from the road requires desert hiking precautions. Visit during cooler months when steam visibility enhances the experience. Tonopah provides the nearest services and supplies.

History of Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring

The ranch name indicates historical use for agricultural operations, with the hot spring serving as both a water source and landmark. The extreme temperature limited direct use but made the spring a notable feature for ranchers and travelers. Specific development history and current access details are not clearly documented.

Monthly Climate
31°
Jan
33°
Feb
42°
Mar
50°
Apr
59°
May
73°
Jun
78°
Jul
77°
Aug
68°
Sep
55°
Oct
42°
Nov
31°
Dec
Annual Precip: 8.5 in Annual Snow: 26.8 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 31°F · Water 180°F · +149° contrast
December Air 31°F · Water 180°F · +149° contrast
February Air 33°F · Water 180°F · +147° contrast
January offers 47°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
48°F
Clear NNW 41.4 mph 46% Good soaking weather
Thursday 78° Low 44° Sunny 1% precip
Spring is +102° warmer
Friday 81° Low 48° Sunny
Spring is +99° warmer
Saturday 80° Low 50° Sunny
Spring is +100° warmer
Sunday 85° Low 50° Sunny
Spring is +95° warmer
Monday 87° Low 54° Sunny
Spring is +93° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1968-09-18

The water at Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 8.1) with 620 mg/L total dissolved solids.

pH 8.1 Slightly Alkaline
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 32 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 9 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Where to Stay

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Mile-High Advisory 5,673 ft

Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring sits at 5,673 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 23% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.

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Temperature
180°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 180°F (82°C)
Avg Air Temp 53°F
Above Ambient +127°F
Great soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.1 mi

Hike 1 waterfall near Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring

Looking for more outdoor adventures? Explore waterfall hikes near Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring, Nevada.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring?
Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring has a water temperature of 180°F (82°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring located?
Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring is located in Nye County, Nevada at 5,673 feet elevation, near Tonopah. Coordinates: 38.5210°N, 116.3650°W.
How do I get to Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring?
Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
What minerals are in the water at Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium. The pH is 8.1 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 620 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring?
The water at Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring reaches 180°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. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring crowded?
Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring?
Essentials for Hot Creek Ranch Hot Spring: 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.