Soldier Meadows Hot Spring

What is the location of the hot springs in Gerlach, Nevada?

The hot springs in Gerlach, Nevada are located along Soldier Meadows Road in the Black Rock Desert region. The precise coordinates of the hot springs are 41°21′35″N latitude and 119°10′53″W longitude. The site lies approximately 5 hours north of Reno, Nevada, and is situated on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The full address of the location is Soldier Meadows Road, Gerlach, NV 89412.

What are the directions to reach the hot springs in Gerlach?

The directions to reach the hot springs in Gerlach require travel on remote, unpaved roads. From the town of Gerlach, visitors must drive north on Country Road 34 for approximately 13 miles. At the junction, they must turn slightly right onto Soldier Meadows Road and continue for roughly 47 miles on a dirt road. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended due to rugged terrain. Travelers are advised to check road conditions with the Friends of Black Rock in Gerlach before departure. The hot springs are located past the BLM cabin along intersecting dirt tracks.

What is the access type and land management status of the hot springs?

The hot springs in Gerlach exist on public land and are managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The access to the site is unrestricted and does not require booking. The area is classified as remote and off-grid, with no accessibility equipment available for individuals with mobility limitations.

What are the pool types and number of hot spring pools in Gerlach?

The hot springs in Gerlach contain between 4 to 6 distinct geothermal pools. The pool types include terraced pools, natural rock-dam pools, a warm pond, and a trench-fed soaking pool. These pools vary in formation and temperature, offering multiple soaking environments for visitors.

What is the temperature range of the hot springs in Gerlach?

The temperature range of the hot springs in Gerlach spans from 90°F to 112°F. These temperatures support a range of soaking experiences, from mildly warm to therapeutically hot, depending on the specific pool.

What is the water composition and smell of the hot springs?

The water composition of the hot springs in Gerlach is mineral-rich. The geothermal water in the Hot Creek area is odorless, indicating the absence of strong sulfur or hydrogen sulfide emissions commonly found in other thermal springs.

What is the depth of the hot spring pools in Gerlach?

The depth of the hot spring pools in Gerlach varies by location. The Warm Pond reaches a depth of 2 feet, while the pool at Chukar Gulch has a depth of 3 feet. These shallow depths make the pools suitable for seated soaking.

What is the clothing policy and visitor suitability at the hot springs?

The clothing policy at the hot springs in Gerlach is not specified. The site is marked as kid-friendly, indicating that families with children can safely visit and use the pools. Pet-friendliness is not specified in the available data.

What are the opening hours and entry cost of the hot springs?

The hot springs in Gerlach are open year-round with no seasonal closures. Entry to the hot springs is free, with no admission fees or permits required for access.

What facilities and accommodations are available near the hot springs?

The hot springs in Gerlach are supported by semi-primitive facilities. Onsite amenities include BLM-managed campsites, a BLM cabin equipped with a wood-burning stove and a pit toilet, and free campsites with some fire rings. Accommodation options include primitive camping at BLM campsites and lodging at the nearby Soldier Meadows Guest Ranch. Parking is available near the main pool.

What is the best season to visit the hot springs in Gerlach?

The best season to visit the hot springs in Gerlach is year-round. Visitors should check local weather and road conditions before traveling due to the remote and rugged nature of the area.

What attractions are located near the hot springs in Gerlach?

Attractions near the hot springs in Gerlach include several notable natural and historic sites. These nearby locations are the Black Rock Desert, High Rock Canyon, Old Camp McGarry Historic Site, Fly Canyon, and Mud Meadow Reservoir. These features enhance the recreational value of the region.

Where can visitors find more information about the hot springs?

Visitors can find more information about the hot springs and the surrounding Black Rock Desert region by visiting the official website at https://blackrockdesert.org/ or by contacting the Friends of Black Rock at (775) 557-2900.