Alaska, the land of ice and fire, is renowned not only for its majestic glaciers and towering mountains but also harbors another unique natural treasure: hot springs. Amidst the pristine and frigid landscapes of the Arctic region, these geothermal oases offer a wondrous warmth, attracting visitors from around the globe to experience and relax. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) as we explore the most famous hot springs in Alaska, where you can immerse yourself in nature and indulge in healing from deep within the earth.
Chena Hot Springs Resort: A Gem Near Fairbanks
Located just about 60 miles northeast of the vibrant city of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs Resort is one of Alaska’s most celebrated hot spring destinations. This resort is not only known for its incredible natural hot springs but also as an ideal spot to witness the magical Aurora Borealis in winter.
Chena Hot Springs was discovered in the early 20th century by two gold mining brothers, Robert and Thomas Swan. They found a warm oasis in the icy land, where hot water steamed amidst a snow-covered landscape. Since then, Chena Hot Springs Resort has evolved into a modern resort, offering full amenities for visitors, from outdoor and indoor hot spring pools, rock steam rooms, to a variety of recreational activities.
The most unique feature at Chena Hot Springs Resort is the outdoor Rock Lake hot springs. Soaking in the naturally warm water, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and birch forests, you will feel wonderfully relaxed. In winter, when temperatures plummet, steam rising from the lake creates a mystical scene, especially when the Northern Lights dance across the night sky.
Outdoor Rock Lake hot springs at Chena Hot Springs Resort offering a relaxing experience amidst pristine nature
Beyond the hot spring experience, Chena Hot Springs Resort also provides many other exciting activities such as visiting the Aurora Ice Museum, where you can admire stunning ice sculptures and enjoy cocktails in ice glasses. In winter, you can join dog sledding tours, snowmobiling, or ice skating. In summer, the resort is an ideal starting point for hiking, fishing, and exploring Alaska’s wilderness.
Manley Hot Springs: Hidden in Alaska’s Heart
In contrast to the bustling Chena Hot Springs Resort, Manley Hot Springs offers a more pristine and peaceful hot spring experience. Situated deep in Alaska’s interior, about 155 miles west of Fairbanks, Manley Hot Springs is a tiny village with fewer than 100 residents. To get here, you can drive (about 5-6 hours from Fairbanks) or take a small plane.
Manley Hot Springs has been used by the indigenous Athabascan people for thousands of years. They believed that the hot water had healing and purifying properties. In the late 19th century, miners and gold seekers discovered this area and founded the village of Manley Hot Springs. Today, the village retains its rustic and charming beauty, with small wooden houses and a slow pace of life.
The main attraction of Manley Hot Springs is its outdoor hot spring pool, surrounded by forests and hills. The hot spring water here is rich in minerals, believed to be beneficial for health. Soaking in the warm water, listening to birdsong and the rustling of leaves, you will feel all stress and fatigue melt away.
Manley Hot Springs does not have as many modern amenities as Chena Hot Springs Resort, but its simplicity and closeness to nature are what attract visitors. Here, you can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking on the Tanana River, or simply relaxing and enjoying the fresh air of rural Alaska. If you want to experience a wild and authentic Alaska, Manley Hot Springs is a great choice.
Circle Hot Springs: Historical Footprints and Wild Beauty
Located near the town of Circle, on the banks of the Yukon River, Circle Hot Springs State Historic Park is another unique hot spring destination in Alaska. This area was once a popular hot spring resort in the early 20th century, serving gold miners and local residents. Today, Circle Hot Springs retains its historical traces and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the wild beauty of Alaska.
Circle Hot Springs is known for its mineral-rich hot water, especially sulfur, which is believed to treat skin and joint conditions. In its heyday, the resort at Circle Hot Springs had a hotel, restaurant, bathhouse, and even a small airfield. However, after years of neglect, the resort deteriorated and closed.
Today, Circle Hot Springs State Historic Park is still open for visitors to explore and experience the hot springs. Although the old buildings are no longer intact, you can still soak in the natural hot spring pool, explore the historical remnants, and enjoy the surrounding wilderness scenery. The park also offers campsites and hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the wider area.
To get to Circle Hot Springs, you can follow the Steese Highway from Fairbanks (about 140 miles) or fly to the town of Circle and then travel by ATV or snowmobile. The journey to Circle Hot Springs can be quite challenging, but the reward is a unique hot spring experience and the chance to explore an interesting part of Alaska’s history.
Why are Alaska’s Hot Springs Special?
Amidst the harsh icy land, the existence of hot springs in Alaska is a marvel. Their origin comes from geothermal activity deep within the earth. Groundwater seeps deep into the ground, is heated by magma or hot rocks, and then rises to the surface through cracks and fissures.
Alaska’s hot springs not only provide warmth but also contain many beneficial minerals for health. Depending on the geological composition of each area, each hot spring has its own unique properties and benefits. Many believe that soaking in hot springs can help reduce muscle and joint pain, improve blood circulation, reduce stress, and beautify the skin.
In addition to health benefits, Alaska’s hot springs offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Imagine soaking in warm water amidst a snow-covered landscape, gazing at a starry night sky or the magical Aurora Borealis. These will surely be memorable moments in your Alaskan adventure.
Conclusion
Alaska is not only the land of ice and snow but also a haven of wondrous hot springs. From the luxurious Chena Hot Springs Resort to pristine oases like Manley Hot Springs and Circle Hot Springs, each destination offers unique and memorable experiences. If you are seeking a travel journey that combines nature exploration and spiritual relaxation, come to Alaska and immerse yourself in the warmth and healing of its famous hot springs. Surely, you will have unforgettable memories of the “Last Frontier” state.