Ruby Valley Hot Springs

## Overview Ruby Valley Hot Springs is a free natural hot spring located in the remote Ruby Valley of northeastern Nevada, near the Ruby Mountains. Situated at approximately 40.2515° N, 115.4059° W, this geothermal spring sits in one of Nevada's most scenic and least-visited valleys — a wide, high-desert basin flanked by the dramatic peaks of the Ruby Mountains to the west. The Ruby Mountains, sometimes called the "Alps of Nevada," rise to over 11,000 feet and create a striking backdrop for soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Ruby Valley has a long history of human use. The valley was traditionally home to the Western Shoshone people, who utilized the region's natural resources — including its geothermal springs — for centuries. The area later became part of the historic Overland Mail Route and Pony Express corridor in the 1860s, and Fort Ruby was established nearby during the Civil War era. The hot springs in this valley have likely been known and visited for generations, though they remain relatively undeveloped and off the beaten path. As a free, primitive hot spring, Ruby Valley Hot Springs offers a rustic soaking experience with no commercial infrastructure. Water temperatures at geothermal springs in this part of Nevada can vary, so visitors should test the water carefully before entering. The spring is best suited for those who enjoy backcountry exploration and don't mind remote, minimally maintained sites. ## Directions 1. From Elko, Nevada, head south on Nevada State Route 228 (the Ruby Valley Road) toward the Ruby Valley. 2. Continue south through the valley for approximately 50–60 miles. The road transitions from paved to gravel as you move deeper into the valley. 3. Watch for the hot spring area near the GPS coordinates 40.2515, -115.4059. The spring is located on the valley floor east of the Ruby Mountains. 4. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially during wet conditions, as some access roads in the valley can be rough and unpaved. 5. Use GPS navigation to pinpoint the exact location, as signage in this remote area may be limited or nonexistent. ## What to Expect Ruby Valley Hot Springs is a remote, undeveloped geothermal spring in the high desert of northeastern Nevada. Visitors should expect a primitive, natural setting with no facilities, restrooms, or maintained trails. The surrounding landscape is wide-open sagebrush steppe with panoramic views of the Ruby Mountains — a truly spectacular and isolated environment. The hot spring water emerges from the ground at elevated temperatures typical of Nevada's Basin and Range geothermal activity. Always test the water temperature before soaking, as source pools can be extremely hot. Look for areas where the water has cooled to a comfortable soaking temperature, often in natural pools or channels downstream from the source. This area is extremely remote. Cell phone service is unreliable to nonexistent throughout much of Ruby Valley. Visitors should come prepared with plenty of water, food, fuel, and supplies. The nearest services are in Elko, roughly 60 miles to the north. Weather in the valley can be harsh — summers are hot and dry, while winters bring freezing temperatures and potential snow. Spring and fall tend to offer the most comfortable conditions for a visit. The Ruby Valley is also home to the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, which is worth a visit if you're in the area. The refuge supports a remarkable diversity of bird species and wetland habitats at the southern end of the valley.