Nature and hot springs in Warm Springs Bay Alaska
Take a step back in time in this little boardwalk community, take in the forests and big waterfalls, and soak in some all natural hot springs next to a raging river. Warm Springs Bay is a little slice of paradise in Southeast Alaska.
Warm Springs is a small boardwalk community located on the East side of Baranof Island in Southeast Alaska. It used to be more of a community, but is now just a small number of mostly seasonal cabins. It is a well protected bay with an incredible waterfall located at the head of the bay. There is also a trail to the lake up above, but the main attraction is the hot springs, which attract visitors from all over. It is a frequent stop for fishing crews on off days in the summer and pleasure boats cruising the inside passage.
The easiest way to get here is by your own boat, but there are also charter vessels that stop here while cruising southeast Alaska. You could also arrange a float plane flight to drop you off. The only place to stay here beyond on your boat at the dock or anchored in the bay is a small lodge called the Baranof Wilderness Lodge. If you are just hoping to soak in the hot springs and do a little hike, one day is enough to see everything. If you want to do some fishing or other exploring on the island this is a great base.
First walk along the boardwalks checking out the cute cabins and stopping by massive waterfall. It is a very small area, but fun to see the little cabins and imagine what life was like back when this tiny town was more than a summer hangout. Be bear aware even when wandering the boardwalks in town. Baranof Island is home to many large brown bears and it is not uncommon for them to be seen in this little community.
Then head up the trail towards the lake. If you are up for it walk all the way up to the lake, which is about two miles, otherwise its just a short ways up the trail to the hot spring pools. Definetly bring bear protection if you are planning this hike and make noise while hiking.
Stop by the natural pools for a hot soak next to the roar of the river. There are a couple nice pools of varying warmth and also a small spot to take a cold plunge next to the river. But be very careful of the river water level and slippery rocks and only do this if you feel it is safe. It is so relaxing to spend the afternoon soaking and taking in the scenery.
If you are visiting during berry season stop along the way back to pick some of the plentiful blueberries on the path to make something delicious for dessert, like a cobbler or one of my favorites, a galette.
After some relaxing head back up the ramp for a soak at the public use bath house at the top of the ramp to the boat dock. There are three private rooms with bathtubs that look out over the bay and have water plumbed from the hot spring. A great option to enjoy the hot springs without having to hike at all and you still get nice views of the bay from the bath.
