Mineral Hot Spring

Elko County, Nevada · Near Jackpot
41.7880°N, 114.7350°W · 5,312 ft
140°F 5,312 ft Short Walk
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution

At 140°F, the source water at Mineral 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.

This 140°F spring flows at 5,312 feet elevation in Elko County, producing water 92 degrees warmer than the 48°F annual average air temperature. Located 421 feet from the nearest road near Jackpot, the spring requires a short walk to access its intensely hot waters in northeastern Nevada's high country.

Location

The spring emerges in the Salmon Falls Creek drainage basin where the Jarbidge Mountains rise to the south and Idaho lies just miles north. At this elevation and northern latitude, annual precipitation exceeds 12 inches with over 42 inches of snow, supporting mountain mahogany, sagebrush, and scattered juniper. The area shows evidence of Tertiary volcanic activity that drives the geothermal system.

The 140°F temperature makes bathing impossible and poses burn hazard—exercise caution and supervise children closely. Visit June through September when snow clears; winter brings heavy snowfall and road closures. The spring lies 4 miles south of Jackpot, Nevada's northernmost town. Combine with fishing on Salmon Falls Reservoir or exploration of the nearby Jarbidge Wilderness. Services available in Jackpot; prepare for rapidly changing mountain weather.

History of Mineral Hot Spring

The Mineral name describes the spring's character rather than commemorating a person or place, reflecting the heavy mineral deposits and travertine formations created by the hot, mineralized water. The area saw limited ranching activity historically due to harsh winters and remote location, though the spring likely served as a landmark for travelers moving between Nevada and Idaho.

Monthly Climate
24°
Jan
27°
Feb
36°
Mar
44°
Apr
54°
May
66°
Jun
77°
Jul
75°
Aug
64°
Sep
49°
Oct
36°
Nov
24°
Dec
Annual Precip: 12.7 in Annual Snow: 42.2 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 24°F · Water 140°F · +117° contrast
December Air 24°F · Water 140°F · +116° contrast
February Air 27°F · Water 140°F · +113° contrast
January offers 54°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
43°F
Clear N 0.0 mph 70% Good soaking weather
Thursday 76° Low 43° Mostly Sunny 2% precip
Spring is +64° warmer
Friday 78° Low 43° Sunny
Spring is +62° warmer
Saturday 75° Low 45° Sunny
Spring is +65° warmer
Sunday 83° Low 42° Sunny
Spring is +57° warmer
Monday 85° Low 48° Sunny
Spring is +55° warmer
Where to Stay

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Mile-High Advisory 5,312 ft

Mineral Hot Spring sits at 5,312 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 21% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.

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Temperature
140°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 140°F (60°C)
Avg Air Temp 48°F
Above Ambient +92°F
Great soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 0.3 mi
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Mineral Hot Spring?
Mineral Hot Spring has a water temperature of 140°F (60°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Mineral Hot Spring located?
Mineral Hot Spring is located in Elko County, Nevada at 5,312 feet elevation, near Jackpot. Coordinates: 41.7880°N, 114.7350°W.
How do I get to Mineral Hot Spring?
Mineral Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (0.3 mi from the road).
Is it safe to soak at Mineral Hot Spring?
At 140°F, Mineral Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Mineral Hot Spring crowded?
Mineral Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Mineral Hot Spring?
Essentials for Mineral 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.