Searching for a classic winter wilderness adventure in the interior of Alaska? Look no further than Tolovana Hot Springs, offering visitors the chance to ski, snowmobile, or snowshoe through Alaska’s remote wilderness!
Hot Springs Pools
Tolovana Hot Springs emerges approximately 1400 feet from the highest mountain peak of Tolovana Hot Springs Dome and just above the beautiful Tolovana River Valley.
These hot springs are quite warm with average temperatures of 125-145°F. Set in an awe-inspiring clearing, these springs form the headwaters of the small creek that flows through the site. Three man-made hot tubs complete with a deck sit approximately 200 feet apart and allow the hot water to continually flow.
No soap is allowed in these natural spring waters. Visitors may enjoy any and all of the tubs, no matter if you are a day-tripper or staying overnights in one of the adjoining cabins. There is a daily fee for using the tubs or for overnight use of cabins. Please remember to make reservations before beginning your adventure.
Lodging
Three comfortable, rustic, non-smoking cabins, each equipped with an outhouse and outfitted with basic supplies, are available for visitors to enjoy while visiting Tolovana Hot Springs. Sit on the deck and watch for moose, black bear, wolves, waterfowl, and other Alaskan wildlife, but don’t shoot! Hunting is not allowed in the hot springs area.
Reservations for the cabins can be made up to three months in advance. The Cedar Cabin sleeps six guests while the Log Cabin and Frame Cabin sleep only four and two visitors, respectively. Each cabin is outfitted with:
- Sleeping pads and lights
- Propane for the stove, pots, pans, and utensils
- Five-gallon water jugs, a sink, and soap
- A wood stove with firewood for heat
Drinking water can be gathered from the cold freshwater spring near the cabins which has been outfitted with an insulated spring box. Make sure to bring your own food, toilet paper, and sleeping bags, respect the neighbors who live just downstream and always carry all of your trash out with you as you leave.
Getting There
Visitors can discover the trailhead to Tolovana Hot Springs 100 miles, or 45 air miles, northwest of Fairbanks, Alaska, on the Elliot Highway, milepost 93.
A ten-mile hike to the hot springs offers breathtaking views of the sweeping Ray and White Mountain Ranges and Minto State Game Refuge. On a lucky day, the clear blue skies proudly provide a view of Denali (Mt. McKinley) which is 200 miles away. Hike, Ski, snowshoe, snow machine, or dogsled to the destination which is open year-round.
Trekkers should have backcountry experience for this wilderness journey or consider hiring an experienced guide as an escort. There is also a public airstrip one mile south of the hot springs that is connected by a well-established trail for bush plane landing.
Tolovana Hot Springs is an Alaskan outdoor experience that you definitely want to add to your bucket list. With a bit of hard work getting there, the journey is sure to pay off as you relax in the healing waters and enjoy the secret wonderland that feels like your very own.
Details
Location: Tolovana River Valley, Alaska
Phone: 907-455-6706
Season: Year-round
GPS: 65.2667°N, 148.8667°W
Website: tolovanahotsprings.com
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