Chief Shakes Hot Springs

What is the location of the hot springs near Wrangell, Alaska?

The hot springs near Wrangell, Alaska are located 28 miles northwest of the city along the Stikine River. The geographic coordinates of the site are 56°43′36.62″N latitude and 132°3′8.00″W longitude. The facility lies off Ketili Slough and is accessible only by boat, kayak, or floatplane. The official address is Wrangell, Alaska 99929.

How can visitors access the hot springs near Wrangell?

Visitors can access the Wrangell hot springs by traveling 28 miles northwest from Wrangell via water or air. The access methods include boat, kayak, or floatplane. Most visitors hire a guide service or travel with locals to reach the site. Upon arrival, a 0.3-mile trail leads to the hot springs facility. An additional short trail from Hot Springs Slough provides direct access to the tubs.

What are the access conditions of the hot springs near Wrangell?

The Wrangell hot springs are classified as remote and partly developed. The site supports day-use access only and does not require booking. Accessibility is limited due to its location, which can only be reached by watercraft or floatplane. There is no specified parking availability due to the remote nature of the site.

What is the temperature of the hot springs near Wrangell?

The temperature of the Wrangell hot springs reaches approximately 140°F. This geothermal heat level supports therapeutic soaking and aligns with typical hot spring temperature ranges suitable for outdoor bathing.

What are the pool types available at the Wrangell hot springs?

The Wrangell hot springs contain two redwood tubs, each 7 feet in diameter, offering multiple soaking environments. Pool types include an indoor screened tub, an outdoor open-air tub, a sheltered tub, and two covered wooden tubs. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor soaking options.

What is the number and structure of pools at the Wrangell hot springs?

The Wrangell hot springs feature a total of two soaking pools. Both pools are constructed from redwood and measure 7 feet in diameter. These tubs are integrated into a partly developed facility that includes both covered and open-air soaking environments.

What are the facilities available at the Wrangell hot springs?

The Wrangell hot springs offer several visitor facilities. These include two redwood hot tubs, dressing rooms, two outhouses, a picnic table, a fire ring, a changing area, a shelter, toilets, and benches. The infrastructure supports both comfort and wilderness immersion for day-use visitors.

What is the cost and booking requirement for the Wrangell hot springs?

The Wrangell hot springs are free to access and do not require any prior booking. The site operates on a first-come, first-served basis and supports spontaneous day visits.

What are the accommodation options near the Wrangell hot springs?

Accommodation near the Wrangell hot springs includes tent camping and wilderness cabins. Tent camping is permitted within 100 feet of trails. Two wilderness cabins, named Shakes Slough 1 and Shakes Slough 2, are located nearby and provide overnight shelter for longer stays.

What is the best season to visit the Wrangell hot springs?

The Wrangell hot springs are accessible year-round, with optimal conditions during spring and summer. Seasonal access depends on weather and water conditions suitable for boat or floatplane travel.

What are the nearby attractions around the Wrangell hot springs?

The Wrangell hot springs are surrounded by natural attractions. Nearby points of interest include the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness, an active volcano, a glacier sharing the same name, and the Canadian border. The area supports birdwatching, particularly for bald eagles, and offers views along the Stikine River.

Is the Wrangell hot springs site family-friendly?

Yes, the Wrangell hot springs are kid-friendly. The site supports family visits and includes safe soaking environments and basic facilities suitable for children.

What is the official contact and online resource for the Wrangell hot springs?

The official contact number for the Wrangell hot springs is 907-225-3101. Visitors can find detailed information on the USDA Forest Service website at (https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tongass/recarea/?recid=79159).