Baranof Hot Springs

What is the location of Baranof Hot Springs?

The location of Baranof Hot Springs is Warm Springs Bay on Baranof Island, Alaska. The hot springs lie 20 miles east of Sitka, Alaska, at geographic coordinates 57°05′22″N latitude and 134°49′59″W longitude. The precise address is Warm Springs Bay, Baranof Island, 20 miles east of Sitka, Alaska 99835. Baranof Hot Springs are part of the Sitka Borough and are accessible only by air or water. There are no roads or scheduled ferry services to the site. Public boardwalks connect the dock to the springs and surrounding facilities.

What are the access options for Baranof Hot Springs?

Access to Baranof Hot Springs is limited to floatplane or boat travel. Visitors can reach the site from Sitka via a floatplane flight lasting approximately 30 minutes on clear days or up to 1 hour during overcast conditions. The site has no road access and cannot be reached by wheeled vehicles. A public dock provides entry to the boardwalk system, which leads to the hot springs, bathhouse, and nearby locations. A U.S. Forest Service trail connects the hot springs to Baranof Lake and a forest cabin.

What is the temperature range of Baranof Hot Springs?

The temperature range of Baranof Hot Springs spans from lukewarm to 124°F. This range supports a variety of thermal experiences, from mild soaking to high-temperature immersion. The hottest pools reach the upper limit of 124°F, offering geothermal intensity suitable for therapeutic use. Cooler pools near the river provide milder temperatures for extended soaking.

What types of pools are available at Baranof Hot Springs?

Baranof Hot Springs offers multiple types of geothermal pools. The site includes communal pools, three private tubs located within a public bathhouse, undeveloped natural pools situated along the riverbank, and a plunge pool. The natural pools are fed directly by mineral spring water and vary in temperature and size. The bathhouse contains three enclosed soaking rooms for private use. In total, the area contains nine pools, including two developed outdoor pools and bathhouse tubs.

What is the water composition of Baranof Hot Springs?

The water composition of Baranof Hot Springs consists of natural mineral spring water. The geothermal water emerges from the earth enriched with dissolved minerals. These minerals contribute to the therapeutic and recreational value of the springs. The water flows into both developed and natural soaking areas without artificial treatment.

What facilities are available at Baranof Hot Springs?

Facilities at Baranof Hot Springs include a public bathhouse, a picnic shelter, and public access docks. The bathhouse features three private soaking rooms supplied with thermal water. A boardwalk system links the bathhouse to the dock and nearby lodging. The picnic shelter offers a covered area for visitors. No vehicle infrastructure exists due to the steep terrain and remote location.

What types of accommodation are near Baranof Hot Springs?

Accommodation near Baranof Hot Springs includes the Baranof Wilderness Lodge and Resort, which offers cabins and a main lodge. The U.S. Forest Service maintains a cabin at Baranof Lake, accessible by trail from the hot springs. Primitive campsites are available along the Baranof Cross-Island Trail. All lodging options are accessible only by foot, boat, or floatplane due to the absence of roads.

What is the accessibility level of Baranof Hot Springs?

Accessibility to Baranof Hot Springs is limited due to its remote location and terrain. The site has no road access and cannot be reached by wheeled vehicles. A boardwalk system enables pedestrian access from the dock to the springs and facilities. The terrain is steep, and travel is restricted to footpaths and trails. Visitors must arrive by floatplane or boat.

What is the best season to visit Baranof Hot Springs?

The best season to visit Baranof Hot Springs is summer. During this period, weather conditions favor floatplane travel, trail access, and outdoor soaking. The summer months provide extended daylight and reduced precipitation, improving visibility and transportation reliability.

What are the nearby attractions around Baranof Hot Springs?

Nearby attractions around Baranof Hot Springs include Baranof River, Baranof Lake, and Warm Springs Bay. Visitors can explore the Chatham Strait, waterfalls, and rapids in the surrounding area. The Baranof Cross-Island Trail connects the hot springs to other parts of the island. Wildlife viewing opportunities include seals, bald eagles, bears, and whales. The Alaska Whale Foundation Coastal Research and Education Center is located nearby. Recreational options include kayaking and fishing trips.

What is the access type and usage policy at Baranof Hot Springs?

The access type at Baranof Hot Springs includes both public and private usage. The communal pools and bathhouse are publicly accessible. The bathhouse contains three private soaking rooms available to the public. The status of additional private facilities is unspecified. Booking requirements and entry fees are not specified in the available data.

What is the number and configuration of pools at Baranof Hot Springs?

The number of pools at Baranof Hot Springs is nine. This total includes two developed outdoor pools and three private tubs inside the public bathhouse. Additional pools consist of undeveloped natural pools near the river and a plunge pool. Pool depths are not specified. Clothing policy, child-friendliness, and pet policy are also not detailed.

What is the contact and reference information for Baranof Hot Springs?

The contact information for Baranof Hot Springs includes the area code 907. The site does not specify opening hours, entry fees, or booking requirements. Parking is not applicable due to the absence of roads.