8 Great Nevada Hot Springs

This resort at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range offers a blend of natural beauty and upscale touches. Mineral soaking tubs are open year-round, as are invigorating steam rooms and relaxation pools. Ease of access to the pools and a selection of roomy accommodations with modern amenities make this an ideal choice for families visiting the Genoa area.

Famed author Mark Twain gave these springs their colorful name when he visited in 1863, so you’re in good – and historic – company when you spend some time here. Nevada’s oldest therapeutic hot springs resort has plenty to offer, from private soaking rooms to a wide range of massage therapies. Wellness enthusiasts or anyone looking for a day of pampering should consider making a reservation at this gem located about 20 minutes south of downtown Reno.

If you’re visiting Carson City, add this resort to your to-do list. Four large outdoor pools boast panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, while private indoor pools are suited for a more intimate bathing experience. With nighttime hours, year-round availability and a restaurant and brewery just a few steps away, Carson Hot Springs offers many flexible options to customize your hot springs experience to your taste.

Venture to Northern Nevada and trek to the heart of the Black Rock Desert to experience this natural marvel, where a series of terraced pools follow the hot creek through the valley. Soldier Meadows Hot Springs is located in a truly remote slice of the state – from the city of Gerlach, you’ll travel a few hours north on a rugged dirt road. Once you’re there, you can enjoy expansive views of the desert from a primitive campsite. It’s a good idea to check in with the volunteers at the Friends of Black Rock office on Main Street in Gerlach before you set out. They’ll have the most up-to-date information regarding trail conditions and can help you prepare for the journey.

Far from the comforts of modern infrastructure, the edge of the Black Rock Desert known as the Playa – a dry lakebed – is the noteworthy location of the annual Burning Man festival; it’s also home to a stunning blue pool of natural hot water in the shadow of the desert’s namesake rock formation. While this is one of the most intermittently available springs, those willing to make advanced preparations will be rewarded with a bucket-list-worthy soak in a hot spring wonderland. The Playa can only be traversed by off-road vehicles in dry conditions. Consider enlisting an experienced guide to lead your adventure, and always check in with the Friends of Black Rock in Gerlach before attempting to cross the Playa.

Spencer Hot Springs leans toward the rustic with soaking pools made from large metal tubs. The tubs closest to the heat source can get pretty steamy. When you’re ready to take it down a notch, use the diverter to adjust the temperature or make a dash to the in-ground spring. Some rock shelving has been added to this natural pool for comfortable seating. In either setting, you’ll enjoy views of the open desert landscape backed by the peaks of Central Nevada’s Toiyabe Range. Look out for the local brood of wild burros while you bathe.

Gold Strike Hot Springs are a set of cascading pools on the Colorado River, where water trickles straight out of fractures in the canyon walls. The pools are located within Lake Mead National Recreation Area and can be reached via a 6.4-kilometer hike down a narrow, rocky canyon. The trail is challenging, requiring you to lower yourself over several large boulders using ropes installed at major obstacles. You can also paddle to Gold Strike Hot Springs through the Black Canyon section of the Colorado River. Many Boulder City outfitters rent kayaks and canoes and provide round-trip transportation.

In Nevada’s Great Basin, Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs is set between the Silver Peak Mountains and the White Mountains, while Boundary Peak – Nevada’s tallest – is directly west of the springs. The site comprises a large concrete hot pool and two natural warm ponds. Free camping, fire pits and grills can attract a weekend crowd, so be prepared to meet some other people who love hot springs, too.

Fly into Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) or Reno-Tahoe (RNO) and rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle to begin your Nevada hot springs adventure. Look into local conditions and hot springs etiquette for a safe and enjoyable experience.