Arizona Hot Spring

## Overview Arizona Hot Spring is a stunning natural geothermal spring tucked into a narrow slot canyon along the Colorado River, within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area in Mohave County, Arizona. The spring feeds a series of warm pools that cascade down through the canyon, with water temperatures that have been reported to range from around 100°F to over 111°F depending on the pool and the season. The hottest water emerges near the source at the top of the canyon, while lower pools tend to be cooler and more comfortable for soaking. The spring sits at the base of dramatic volcanic rock walls carved by centuries of water flow, creating a striking slot canyon experience. Arizona Hot Spring — sometimes referred to as Ringbolt Hot Spring due to the historic ringbolts hammered into the canyon walls — has long been a popular destination for hikers, backpackers, and hot spring enthusiasts. The ringbolts and a ladder installed in the canyon help visitors navigate the steep, narrow passage down to the pools. The area is managed by the National Park Service as part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and no fee is required specifically for the hot spring, though standard park entrance fees may apply. The water has a slightly mineral smell typical of geothermal springs, and visitors have reported the pools to be a relaxing and memorable soak, especially during cooler months. During the summer, temperatures in this part of the Mojave Desert can exceed 120°F, making the hike dangerous — the National Park Service has historically advised against visiting between May and September. ## Directions 1. From the Lake Mead Visitor Center (Alan Bible Visitor Center), head east on US Highway 93 for approximately 4.2 miles. 2. Watch carefully for the Arizona Hot Spring trailhead sign on the right side of the highway. If you are coming from Kingman, Arizona, the trailhead is located approximately 0.2 miles past mile marker 4 on US-93. 3. Park at the designated trailhead parking area. 4. From the parking area, walk down the hill and pass under the highway through a wash. 5. Follow the wash and trail markers south toward the Colorado River. The hike is roughly 3 miles one way, descending about 900 feet in elevation through a desert wash before reaching the hot spring canyon. 6. When you reach the slot canyon, you will need to climb down using a ladder and ringbolts anchored into the rock walls to access the soaking pools. **GPS Coordinates:** 35.9753, -114.7040 ## What to Expect The hike to Arizona Hot Spring is a moderately strenuous out-and-back trail of approximately 6 miles round trip. The route follows a dry desert wash with little to no shade, so bringing plenty of water is essential — at least one gallon per person is commonly recommended. The terrain is rocky and uneven, with some scrambling required in the slot canyon section. Once you reach the canyon, a metal ladder and historic ringbolts help you descend to the series of warm pools. The pools vary in temperature, with the uppermost pool being the hottest. The canyon walls tower overhead, creating a dramatic and intimate setting. The lowest pool sits near the Colorado River, offering the option to cool off in the river after soaking. The trail is best visited from October through April when desert temperatures are more manageable. There are no facilities, restrooms, or potable water at the trailhead or along the trail. Visitors should be prepared for a remote desert hike and carry all necessary supplies. The trail can be busy on weekends during peak season, so an early start is recommended for a more peaceful experience. Note: Flash flooding is a serious hazard in the slot canyon, particularly during monsoon season (July–September). Always check weather conditions before heading out, and avoid the canyon if rain is in the forecast.