Johnson Ranch Springs
Johnson Ranch Springs near Wells produces 72-degree water at 5,682 feet elevation with extremely dilute chemistry dominated by calcium and magnesium. Recent USGS measurements recorded 20.6 degrees Celsius. Sodium appears at minimal 4.94 milligrams per liter, indicating meteoric water with limited deep circulation. Short walk from 125.9 meters off nearest road.
The spring emerges in northeastern Nevada's high valleys where basin-and-range topography creates elevated rangeland at 5,682 feet. Average air temperatures reach 49.2 degrees Fahrenheit with 10.4 inches of annual precipitation and 29 inches of snow, creating cold high-desert conditions. The surrounding landscape consists of sagebrush valleys between mountain ranges typical of Elko County's remote basin country.
Access likely crosses private ranch property; seek permission before visiting. The modest 22.8-degree temperature differential above ambient makes this barely warm rather than hot. Winter conditions bring significant snow from November through April. Visit summer through early fall when high country becomes accessible. Wells provides services 30 miles distant. Prepare for remote high-elevation conditions.
The Johnson Ranch name references early ranching operations in this district where thermal springs provided reliable water for livestock. Specific documentation of the ranch's establishment and history has not been preserved. The spring continues to flow on rangeland that maintains ranching use today.
The water at Johnson Ranch Springs contains 215 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Johnson Ranch Springs sits at 5,682 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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Johnson Ranch Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear.
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