Amidst the pristine and frigid landscapes of Alaska lies a hidden treasure offering warmth and unparalleled relaxation: natural hot springs. Imagine immersing yourself in soothing warm waters, surrounded by a blanket of white snow, with the potential for the magical aurora borealis dancing across the sky above. These hot springs are not just ideal destinations for relaxation but also unique opportunities to experience the wondrous natural beauty of Alaska. This article will take you on a journey to discover the most incredible natural hot springs in Alaska, where you can enjoy the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
Why are Alaska’s Natural Hot Springs So Appealing?
Alaska, nicknamed “The Land of the Midnight Sun,” is renowned for its majestic mountains, magnificent glaciers, and untamed wilderness. However, few realize that beneath the icy surface lies a priceless gift: abundant natural hot springs. Alaska’s natural hot springs offer a unique and captivating experience for several reasons:
- Unique Contrast: Picture stepping out of the biting Alaskan winter cold and sinking into pleasantly warm water. The contrast between the frigid exterior and the soothing warmth within creates an exceptionally special and invigorating sensation.
- Health Benefits: Natural hot spring water, rich in minerals, is known for its numerous health benefits, from reducing stress and muscle aches to improving blood circulation and enhancing skin health. Soaking in hot springs is a fantastic natural therapy for physical and mental rejuvenation.
- Stunning Natural Scenery: Most natural hot springs in Alaska are nestled amidst breathtaking, untouched natural landscapes. You can relax in the warm waters while admiring snow-capped mountains, forests, or even the vibrant aurora borealis illuminating the night sky.
- Unique Experience: Bathing in Alaskan hot springs is more than just a typical relaxation activity; it’s an integral part of exploring this remarkable land. It offers a chance to connect with nature, experience cultural distinctiveness, and create unforgettable memories.
Chena Hot Springs Resort – The Most Famous Hot Spring Destination
When it comes to natural hot springs in Alaska, Chena Hot Springs Resort is a must-mention. Located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, this resort is one of Alaska’s most famous and beloved hot spring destinations. Chena Hot Springs is renowned not only for its natural hot spring waters but also for its perfect blend of modern amenities and untouched natural beauty.
Chena Hot Springs Resort surrounded by snow-covered trees.
At Chena Hot Springs Resort, visitors can enjoy a variety of exciting experiences:
- Outdoor and Indoor Hot Spring Pools: The resort features both outdoor and indoor hot spring pools, filled with natural mineral water. The outdoor pool is an ideal choice for relaxing amidst snowy landscapes and stargazing.
- Aurora Viewing from Hot Springs: Chena Hot Springs is ideally located for observing the aurora borealis. Imagine soaking in warm water while marveling at the magical light show of the aurora dancing across the sky – a truly unique experience.
- Aurora Ice Museum: Right at the resort, you can explore the unique Aurora Ice Museum, showcasing stunning ice sculptures created by talented artists. The museum is maintained at -7°C (19°F) year-round, offering a fascinating and distinctive experience.
- Other Winter Activities: In addition to hot spring bathing, Chena Hot Springs Resort offers many other exciting winter activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and tours to nearby attractions.
Chena Hot Springs Resort is the perfect destination for those seeking a comfortable and convenient Alaskan natural hot spring experience, while also enjoying various recreational and exploration activities.
Goddard Hot Springs – Untouched Beauty Near Sitka
If you’re seeking a more pristine and nature-immersed natural hot spring experience, Goddard Hot Springs is an excellent choice. Located near Sitka in Southeast Alaska, Goddard Hot Springs offers a peaceful and tranquil setting, away from the hustle and bustle of large resorts.
Goddard Hot Springs is not a luxury resort but rather a public hot spring area with two simple wooden tubs built alongside the natural hot springs. To reach Goddard Hot Springs, you need to travel by boat or plane from Sitka, making for an adventurous journey.
The experience at Goddard Hot Springs is deeply natural and wild:
- Natural Wooden Tubs: The two wooden tubs are simply constructed, blending into the surrounding natural scenery. Natural hot spring water flows directly into the tubs, providing a relaxing and nature-connected feeling.
- Peaceful Mountain Forest Setting: Goddard Hot Springs is situated within the Tongass National Forest, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. The quiet and fresh atmosphere is ideal for escaping the noise of city life and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
- Wildlife Viewing: The area around Goddard Hot Springs is home to various wildlife, including deer, moose, bears, and seabirds. If you’re lucky, you might spot these animals while relaxing in the hot springs.
- Backpacking Experience: Visiting Goddard Hot Springs is a journey of discovery and adventure. You can combine hot spring bathing with other activities such as kayaking, fishing, or hiking in the forest.
Goddard Hot Springs is suitable for travelers who appreciate wilderness and want to experience natural hot springs in a truly authentic and nature-integrated way.
Manley Hot Springs – Unique Greenhouse Experience
Manley Hot Springs offers a uniquely distinctive hot spring bathing experience. Located in a small village called Manley Hot Springs, about 160 miles west of Fairbanks, this destination is famous for its private hot tubs housed within a tropical produce greenhouse.
This unique concept originated from utilizing natural hot spring water to heat greenhouses and grow fresh produce in Alaska’s harsh climate. Subsequently, local residents transformed the greenhouse into a unique relaxation spot, attracting visitors from around the world.
The hot spring bathing experience at Manley Hot Springs offers many delights:
- Private Tubs in a Greenhouse: You’ll enjoy absolute privacy in hot tubs set within a greenhouse. The greenhouse’s warm ambiance, combined with hot steam and the aroma of plants, creates a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere.
- Contrast Between Tropical and Frigid: Inside the greenhouse, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a lush tropical garden, with thriving plants and ripening fruits. Meanwhile, outside the greenhouse is the Alaskan winter landscape with white snow and freezing temperatures. This unique contrast creates a highly interesting and memorable experience.
- Supporting the Local Community: Manley Hot Springs is a community-based tourism destination, managed and operated by local residents. By visiting, you not only experience unique hot springs but also contribute to the economic support and cultural preservation of the local community.
- Explore Manley Hot Springs Village: The small village of Manley Hot Springs also has many interesting things to explore, from traditional log cabins and historic churches to local craft shops.
Manley Hot Springs is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique, private, and community-connected hot spring bathing experience in Alaska.
Other Natural Hot Springs Worth Exploring
Besides Chena, Goddard, and Manley Hot Springs, Alaska has many other natural hot springs waiting for you to discover. Some other notable locations include:
- Circle Hot Springs: Located near the town of Circle, Circle Hot Springs is a small resort with an outdoor hot spring pool and cozy cabins. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and pristine natural beauty.
- Tolovana Hot Springs: Hidden in the wilderness near the Tolovana River, Tolovana Hot Springs is a remote destination suitable for those seeking absolute seclusion and tranquility. Reaching it requires hiking or a helicopter ride.
- Unalaska Hot Springs: Located on Unalaska Island in the Aleutian Islands, Unalaska Hot Springs is a wild hot spring area with numerous small springs and natural pools. It offers stunning island scenery and opportunities to spot rare seabirds.
Exploring other natural hot springs in Alaska may require careful preparation and a spirit of adventure. However, the rewards will be unique and unforgettable experiences amidst Alaska’s wild and magnificent nature.
Tips for Bathing in Alaskan Hot Springs
To have a complete and safe natural hot spring bathing experience in Alaska, keep in mind these tips:
- Ideal Time: Winter (September to March) is the best time to bathe in Alaskan hot springs, especially if you want to combine it with aurora viewing. However, you can enjoy hot springs year-round.
- Prepare Clothing: Bring swimwear, towels, indoor slippers, and a warm robe. In winter, you need to dress warmly before and after bathing to avoid getting cold.
- Check Water Temperature: Before entering the pool, check the water temperature to ensure it’s not too hot. The ideal temperature usually ranges from 38°C to 40°C (100°F to 104°F).
- Stay Hydrated: Soaking in hot water can dehydrate your body. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after bathing.
- Avoid Bathing if Intoxicated or Ill: Avoid hot spring bathing if you are intoxicated or have cardiovascular conditions, high blood pressure, or infectious diseases.
- Respect Nature: Maintain general hygiene, do not litter, and respect the natural environment around the hot spring area.
- Combine with Other Activities: Hot spring bathing can be combined with many other tourist activities in Alaska such as aurora viewing, skiing, snowmobiling, glacier exploration, and visiting cities and towns.
Alaskan natural hot springs are not just fantastic relaxation destinations but also an indispensable part of exploring the wild and unique beauty of this land. Plan your Alaska trip and don’t miss the incredible feeling of soaking in warm water amidst a magical natural setting. Are you ready for your journey to discover the best natural hot springs in Alaska?