Nevada

Twelve Mile Hot Springs [PRIVATE PROPERTY] - Hot Springs in Nevada

08/27/2019

One of the largest outdoor hot springs in Nevada was giant.

It was an undeveloped hot spring, but the pool was the right temperature for everyone and could be recommended.

If only it weren't for that tricky trail.

Caution

We have been informed that the property is privately owned and therefore unavailable. Please consider visiting based on the latest local information.

Collapsed bridge

I came to the northern border of Nevada, near the border with Idaho.

The climate was cool, with lows near freezing even in early spring.

Muddy Road 1

The name of the hot springs is due to its location 12 miles north of the town of Wells.

Driving on the dirt road along Bishop Creek, the road surface was so muddy that I almost got stuck.

Muddy Road 2

I backed out cautiously, parked my car in a safe place, and decided to walk the remaining 2 miles or so to the hot springs.

As the valley gradually deepened, I found a small dam.

Wrecked Bridge 1

I had to cross over to the other side of the river here, but the bridge planks completely collapsed.

Water was pouring down from the dam lake with a rumbling sound at my feet.

Wrecked Bridge 2
Capybara
Capybara
The hot springs await me.
Don't take it too hard.
Alpaca
Alpaca

I felt I could cross, but I backed off a bit, considering the risk of failure.

Then I made up my mind.

River Crossing

Cross this part of the road!

I was not at all enthusiastic about the freezing water temperature, but the water was waist deep and did not look like it would drown me.

Bishop Creek

As a result, we made it across without difficulty, but it would be wise not to aim for the 12-mile hot springs in rough weather.

The fact that it takes only 0.3 miles to reach the hot springs if you can get through this difficult section may cause you to overexert yourself.

Nevada's one of the largest outdoor pools

Pipe

The hot spring I was looking for was located on the riverbank.

The boundary between the hot spring and the river was separated by concrete, although the surface was eroded and looked like rocks.

Board

Therefore, the mixing of river water was kept to a minimum.

The pool is huge, 16 feet wide and 100 feet long.

Downstream

The depth was 2 feet on the stream side and became shallower as it approached the cliff.

The water temp was 104 degrees F. miraculously adequate.

Upstream

There was no noticeable odor or coloration in the water.

The apparent rule is clothing optional.

Cliffside

If you tuck your body completely into the shade of rocks, it feels private and you don't have to worry about being naked.

Gushing

The hot water gushed extensively from the base of the cliff, creating ripples on the surface of the water.

Because of the abundant gush, the water was clear.

Riverside

Perhaps it was the collapse of the bridge that had kept the tranquility of such a popular hot spring.

Summary

Twelve Mile Hot Springs, Wells, Nevada, U.S.

My rating

Type: Undeveloped (camping allowed)

Rule: Clothing optional

Chemical use: No

Water temp: Up to 104 degrees F

  • Writer

Hot Springer Ken

A hot spring enthusiast based in Japan. Toured over 300 North American hot springs while working in Texas from 2016 to 2022. For updates, visit X or Instagram!

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