Soldier Meadows Hot Spring

## Overview Soldier Meadows Hot Spring is a remote natural hot spring located in the high desert of northern Nevada, near the coordinates 41.3525°N, 119.2098°W. Situated in the vast and sparsely populated Soldier Meadows area of Humboldt County, this geothermal feature lies within the broader Black Rock Desert region — a landscape renowned for its rugged beauty, wide-open spaces, and geothermal activity. The Soldier Meadows area has a rich history stretching back thousands of years. The warm springs in this region were historically significant to the Northern Paiute people, who utilized the meadows and surrounding lands for seasonal camps and resource gathering. In the mid-19th century, the area became part of the emigrant trail corridor, and a military outpost — from which the name "Soldier Meadows" derives — was established in the 1860s to protect settlers and mail routes traveling through the region. The Soldier Meadows Ranch, one of the oldest cattle ranches in Nevada, still operates nearby and is a notable landmark in the area. The hot springs in this region are fed by geothermal activity associated with the Basin and Range Province, where tectonic stretching of the Earth's crust allows heated groundwater to rise to the surface. Water temperatures at Soldier Meadows Hot Spring have been reported to range from warm to quite hot depending on the specific vent, so visitors should exercise caution and test the water temperature before entering. ## Directions 1. From Orovada, Nevada, head west on US-293 (Rebel Creek Road / Soldier Meadows Road). 2. Continue northwest on the Soldier Meadows Road for approximately 60–70 miles. This is a remote, unpaved road for much of its length — a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended, and 4WD may be necessary depending on conditions. 3. The road passes through the Soldier Meadows Ranch area. The hot springs are located in the meadows near the ranch, close to the GPS coordinates 41.3526, -119.2098. 4. Watch for small pools and marshy areas fed by geothermal water along the meadow. The springs can be subtle and spread across the landscape. **Note:** This is an extremely remote location with no services, cell coverage, or facilities for many miles. Come fully prepared with fuel, water, food, and supplies. Road conditions can deteriorate significantly in wet weather. ## What to Expect Soldier Meadows Hot Spring offers a truly off-the-beaten-path soaking experience in one of Nevada's most isolated and scenic landscapes. The springs emerge in a broad, grassy meadow surrounded by desert hills and sagebrush-covered terrain. Multiple warm pools of varying temperatures can be found in the area, some suitable for comfortable soaking and others too hot for direct contact. The setting is strikingly remote and peaceful — visitors often have the springs entirely to themselves. The meadow environment supports lush grasses and wetland vegetation that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding arid desert. Wildlife sightings are common, including wild horses, pronghorn antelope, and various bird species. The area is also home to the Soldier Meadows pupfish, a rare and protected species found in the warm spring outflows. There are no developed facilities, restrooms, or signage at the springs. Camping in the area is generally possible on surrounding public land (BLM), but visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles to protect this fragile desert ecosystem. The best seasons to visit are spring through fall, as winter conditions can make the access road impassable. Nighttime skies here are exceptionally dark, making this an outstanding stargazing destination as well.