Arizona Hot Springs

Arizona Hot Springs is a group of natural geothermal pools in a narrow, water-worn canyon beside the Colorado River. The land visit is a serious hike, not a quick pullout: the National Park Service lists 5 miles out and back or a 5.69-mile loop linking the Arizona Hot Springs and White Rock trails. It gives the route 750 feet of elevation change and 4 to 8 hours round trip. Go for the canyon walk as much as the soak; the sandy wash and steep scrambling make this a poor choice if you want an easy stop.

From the shared White Rock Canyon trailhead off U.S. 93, the unmaintained route descends through a normally dry wash of soft sand, gravel, rocks and boulders before reaching the Colorado River and Hot Spring Canyon. Footpaths braid together near the river, so keep track of your route. The loop descends a 20-foot ladder to White Rock Canyon Trail, with steep grades and ledges along the way.

Carry plenty of drinking water; none is available at the trailhead. Do not hike in a wash or canyon when thunderstorms threaten flash flooding. At the spring, stay on the established route and leave the flowing water and rocks as they are.

Geothermal water rises through faults and fractures and flows at an estimated 30 to 50 gallons per minute. NPS reports temperatures of 111 to 120°F. The pools sit among close, water-polished walls, with a waterfall and ladder giving the canyon its most recognizable view. Expect clothing-optional soaking. For a photo, include the ladder, falling water and the close rock walls together; that shows how narrow the canyon is.

Ringbolt Hot Springs takes its alternate name from Ringbolt Rapids, just upstream from Hot Spring Canyon. The pools are a natural, free-flowing spring system, not a built bathhouse. Blocking its flow with sandbags or other objects is prohibited because it alters the spring and creates health risks.

The canyon is mostly volcanic rock and volcanic ash. Granite boulders washed down from the Black Mountains add lighter blocks among the darker canyon walls. Look for desert plants such as indigo bush, rabbit brush, Mormon tea and globemallow along the route.

Parking is at the shared trailhead just off U.S. 93, south of Hoover Dam. Pit toilets are about 200 yards downstream of the springs along the Colorado River, not beside the pools; there is no food service at the spring. The trail is in a fee area, so keep your park pass or proof of admission in the vehicle. Pets are allowed on the trail on a leash no longer than six feet.

Land access closes annually May 15 through September 30. NPS may also close strenuous trails outside that window when the Willow Beach forecast reaches 95°F or flash flooding is possible. The springs remain accessible by water on Lake Mohave during trail closures.