Overview
A classic Southeast Alaska hot spring that you have to earn
Baranof Warm Springs is a tiny community on Warm Springs Bay, east of Sitka on Baranof Island, known for a waterfront bathhouse plus natural soaking pools set against the Baranof River. Wikipedia describes a public bathhouse with three separate tubs, and a short trail (often described as about a quarter mile) leading to the natural pools. For trip planning, the key fact is access: you don’t drive here. You arrive by boat or floatplane, then walk on boardwalks and trail to the soaking areas.
What the water is like
For the thermal springs themselves, Wikipedia lists the source water around 124°F (51°C). The soak pools are typically cooler than the source because they mix and cool before people get in, but exact temperatures vary with flow and weather.
Why people love it
Warm water, spruce forest, and salt-air weather in the same hour. It feels remote without being a technical expedition, as long as you plan transport carefully.
Location & Access
Where it is
Baranof Warm Springs is on Warm Springs Bay on the east side of Baranof Island, within the City and Borough of Sitka. Wikipedia lists the community coordinates as 57.08944, -134.83306.
How to get there
Access is by boat or floatplane. The Alaska State kids’ hot springs page and Alaska.org both describe Baranof as reachable by boat or floatplane, and Wikipedia notes scheduled floatplane flights from Sitka (weather permitting). There are no roads in the community, movement is on foot via boardwalks and trails.
On-site routing
The waterfront bathhouse is near the dock area. The natural pools are reached by walking inland along a short trail. Expect wet ground, slick roots, and the sound of fast water, the pools sit right beside whitewater.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, traction sandals, and a dry change of clothes. Add rain gear, warm layers, and a dry bag for electronics. Bring food and drinking water, services are limited and plans can stretch if weather delays transport.
Seasonality
Summer brings more visiting boats. Winter can be quieter but harsher. In any season, build buffer into your pickup plan, Southeast Alaska weather decides the schedule more than we do.
Suitability & Accessibility
Baranof Warm Springs is best for confident travelers who are comfortable relying on a boat or floatplane schedule and who like rustic infrastructure. It’s a top-tier choice if you want a wild-feeling soak without a long backpack approach.
Families
For most visiting families, this is a tough fit. The remoteness, wet footing, and fast river beside the pools raise the stakes. Families with strong outdoor habits can make it work, but it’s not an easy “bring the kids and see” stop.
Couples and small groups
Excellent for couples and small groups who move at a similar pace. The best visits are the ones where nobody feels rushed to squeeze in one more soak before a pickup time.
Mobility realities
Even if you arrive by floatplane, you’ll be walking on boardwalks, then uneven trail and wet rock near the pools. Expect steps, slick transitions, and narrow edges. If mobility is limited, the bathhouse may be the more realistic option than the river pools, but don’t assume step-free access or easy tub entry.
Expectations vs reality
It’s rustic. That’s the point. If you want lockers, staff, and predictable conditions, you’ll have a better time at a road-connected resort elsewhere.
Safety & Etiquette
Remote travel safety comes first
Weather can delay boats and planes. Carry extra food, warm layers, and a communication plan. Tell someone your pickup time and your backup plan if transport shifts.
River-side soaking needs attention
The natural pools sit right beside fast water. Move slowly, keep kids and distracted friends away from the edge, and keep your stance stable on wet rock. Traction sandals help more than you’d think.
Heat pacing
Even if the pool feels comfortable, long soaks can overheat you. Do shorter rounds, drink water, and cool down between sessions. If you feel lightheaded, step out and reset in a sheltered spot.
Keep the water clean
Skip soap and shampoo in the pools. If you use the bathhouse tubs, rinse off first when possible. Small habits keep the experience pleasant for everyone and reduce maintenance stress in a remote place.
Shared-space etiquette
It goes best when people share space and keep transitions smooth. Don’t linger on entry steps, give others room to get in and out, and keep voices lower. Photos are fine, just avoid capturing other visitors close-up.
FAQs
Can you drive to Baranof Warm Springs?
No. Alaska.org and the Alaska State hot springs page describe access by boat or floatplane, and Wikipedia notes there are no roads in the community.
Are there private soaking options?
Wikipedia describes a public waterfront bathhouse with three separate tubs, plus natural pools reached by a short trail. Availability can vary with local conditions, so plan for flexibility.
How hot is the spring?
For the thermal springs, Wikipedia lists source water around 124°F (51°C). Soaking pools are typically cooler due to mixing and cooling, and the feel can change with weather.
How far is the walk to the natural pools?
Sources commonly describe a short trail, often noted around a quarter mile. Expect wet footing and uneven ground near the river.
What should I pack?
Swimsuit, towel, traction sandals, rain gear, and a dry change of clothes. Add food and water, plus extra warm layers in case weather delays your ride.