Quick FactsOverview
About Twelvemile Hot Springs
Twelvemile Hot Springs, Nevada is a free, primitive geothermal soaking pool located in Bishop Creek Canyon in Elko County, approximately 12 miles north of the town of Wells. Also known as Bishop Creek Hot Springs, the pool measures roughly 80 feet long by 9 feet wide and about 3 feet deep, with a gravel bottom and clear mineral water. Geothermal water at 104 degrees Fahrenheit flows directly from the rock face into the pool, and depending on weather conditions, the soaking temperature ranges between 94 and 104 degrees. It is one of the most scenic natural hot springs in Nevada.
A concrete retaining wall separates the soaking pool from Bishop Creek, which runs alongside it. The creek itself is warmed by the geothermal water, creating a secondary soaking area where the spring water mixes with the creek. The springs are open year round, though access is easiest in dry conditions from late spring through early fall. During winter, the road may be snow-covered, adding length and difficulty to the approach. There are no facilities, signage, or cell service at the springs. The road and pool are on private land, and visitors access the area at the owner's tolerance. The site has a strong leave-no-trace ethic, and past misuse has threatened access.
Location & Access
Getting to Twelvemile Hot Springs
Twelvemile Hot Springs is reached from the town of Wells, Nevada by driving north on Highway 93, turning onto North Metropolis Road for approximately 5 miles, then continuing on County Road (Upper Metropolis Road) for roughly 3 miles until a right turn leads to the canyon. The last 2 miles to the springs follow a rough, unimproved dirt road that crosses Bishop Creek multiple times. No hiking trail exists, as the approach follows the old road itself.
Directions and Access Details
Most visitors park at the cattle guard at the start of the rough section and hike the remaining 2 miles on foot, making the round trip approximately 4 miles on flat terrain. With a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle in dry conditions, it is possible to drive closer, but the road includes creek fords and rocky sections that are impassable after rain or in winter. There is no signage for parking or directions. Cell service is nonexistent in the canyon, so visitors should download directions and share their plans with someone before departing. For those looking for hot springs near Wells, Twelvemile Hot Springs is the primary natural soaking destination in the area. The nearest lodging and services are in Wells, 12 miles south. No camping is permitted at the springs themselves, but dispersed camping is available on public land nearby.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Twelvemile Hot Springs
Twelvemile Hot Springs suits adventurous soakers who enjoy primitive, undeveloped hot springs in remote settings with no facilities or services. The pool is large enough for a small group and the clear, naturally heated water is a draw for visitors willing to make the two mile approach. The spring is clothing optional, and the remote location means encounters with other visitors are possible but not guaranteed. Dogs are allowed and some visitors bring their pets, though the hot water may not suit all animals.
Accessibility at Twelvemile Hot Springs
There are no accessibility features at Twelvemile Hot Springs. The approach requires a 2 mile walk on a rough, uneven dirt road with creek crossings that may have standing water. The pool itself is at creek level and entry requires stepping over the retaining wall. Visitors with mobility concerns will find access very difficult. For those seeking natural hot springs nevada has in abundance, Twelvemile is one of the more rewarding backcountry soaks in the northeastern part of the state, offering solitude and scenic canyon views without the crowds found at more accessible springs. However, the rough access road, the clothing-optional culture, and the total absence of facilities mean this spring is not suited for families with small children or visitors looking for a managed soaking experience.
Safety & Etiquette
Twelvemile Hot Springs Safety Tips
Twelvemile Hot Springs is in a remote canyon with no staff, cell service, or emergency services nearby, and visitors should treat it with appropriate caution. The source water emerges at 104 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause discomfort or overheating during prolonged immersion, especially in summer when air temperatures are also high. Visitors should hydrate, take breaks, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion. The creek crossings on the approach road can be slippery, and the road itself is rough enough to damage low-clearance vehicles. Flash flooding is possible in the canyon during storms. Visitors should check weather forecasts before driving in.
Visitor Etiquette at Twelvemile Hot Springs
The road and pool are on private land, and continued access depends on visitors treating the area with respect. Pack out all trash, including food scraps and personal items. Do not use soap, shampoo, or any products in or near the pool or creek. Do not move or damage the retaining wall. Glass containers should not be brought to the pool area. Fires are not permitted at the springs. If other visitors are present, be respectful of shared space and keep noise to a reasonable level. Camping is not allowed at the springs themselves. Among the hot springs in Nevada, Twelvemile is one of the most sensitive to visitor behavior, as past misuse has prompted the landowner to consider restricting access. Visitors who follow leave-no-trace principles help ensure this spring remains available to the public.
