Nevada’s Natural Spa: Goldstrike Hot Springs

Exploring Nevada’s Goldstrike Hot Springs

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      Goldstrike Hot Springs is one of Nevada’s best-kept secrets, offering both adventure and relaxation. Located along the Colorado River, a perfect Day Trip for hikers looking to explore the beauty of the Goldstrike Canyon while soaking in natural Goldstrike Hot Springs at the end of the journey. On a Sunday, my brother, a friend, and I set out to explore this stunning spot again, knowing exactly what to expect. But as always, we were excited to return to such a beautiful, remote place.

      Goldstrike Hot Springs Trail Map
      Goldstrike Hot Springs Canyon Trail Map
      5.3 mi Length, 1,013 ft Elevation Drop
      Illustrated by Yahor Buiniakou

      Starting the Hike

      We began the hike around 11 a.m., slightly later than we had planned. The parking lot was almost full, but the trail still felt relatively peaceful. Goldstrike Hot Springs is a popular destination, but the area is large enough to make you feel like you’re alone with nature.

      The hike starts at Goldstrike Canyon Road, where a gate prevents vehicles from going any further. From there, it’s a brief walk along Highway 95 before the gravel road transitions into the official trail.

      Once we entered the trail, we quickly left the noise of the highway behind us. The canyon walls seemed to close in around us, creating a sense of seclusion. It was a reminder that we were entering a wild, untouched part of Nevada. At this point, the path began to feel more like an adventure, one that would soon reveal the true beauty of the area.

      The History of Goldstrike Canyon

      As we ventured deeper into the canyon, we came across scattered remnants of the past. Old car parts, likely from long-forgotten accidents on the old highway above, were wedged between rocks. These rusted metal fragments stood out against the canyon’s rugged beauty, hinting at a time when this area was less protected and traveled.

      the-new-highway
      Under the new highway bridge, remnants of an old crash are scattered across the canyon floor, with more pieces found further down the trail.

      It’s not surprising, considering the canyon’s proximity to Boulder City, which was once a bustling construction hub for the Hoover Dam. The highway that once connected this area to the growing city is long gone, but the marks of its past still remain.

      Further down the trail, more twisted metal appeared, seemingly out of place in such a remote environment. It made us wonder how these heavy objects ended up so far into the canyon. While the canyon holds many of its secrets, these remnants offer a glimpse into its untold stories, adding an intriguing layer to the journey.

      Keeping the Trail Wild and Protected

      The Goldstrike Canyon Trail is located on land managed by the National Park Service and the Bureau of Reclamation. However, the trail itself, including its challenging ropes, is not actively maintained or inspected by the National Park Service. This means hikers rely on each other for trail upkeep, especially when it comes to maintaining the path to the Goldstrike Hot Springs.

      making-our-way-to-the-springs-passing-the-water-station
      One of our group members carefully navigating a steep section shortly after passing the water station, as we continue our descent into the canyon.

      On a previous visit, I came across a small water station with bottles and a trash bin left by thoughtful hikers. This time, though, either we missed it or it wasn’t there.

      The rugged, untamed nature of the trail is part of its mystique, but it also comes with responsibility. If you visit, remember that keeping this place beautiful depends on all of us. Be respectful of the environment, pack out your trash, and leave no trace. Nature offers us incredible experiences—let’s protect it for the next adventurers.

      The Rope-Assisted Trail Through Goldstrike’s Rugged Landscape

      As we ventured deeper into Goldstrike Canyon, the landscape around us grew more dramatic. Towering rock walls lined the path, and the terrain became increasingly uneven, with jagged rocks that demanded our full attention. The air felt cooler as we descended into the depths of the canyon, and each step felt like we were entering another world.

      Not long into the hike, we encountered the first rope-assisted section.

      canyon-opens-into-a-small-valley
      The canyon opens into a small valley, providing a brief respite from the tight canyon walls before the descent resumes.

      The ropes made the descent manageable, with carved steps in the rocks helping us navigate. The canyon slowly opened into a small valley, providing a brief sense of spaciousness. It was here that we first noticed power lines running through the area, a small reminder of human presence, though nature still dominated the scene.

      The Ropes and the Rocks: A Descent Into Adventure

      Watermarks on the rocks were a clear indication of the canyon’s history, shaped over time by powerful currents. We paused to take it in, appreciating the raw beauty of the surroundings before moving on.

      goind-down-the-smoother-slide-rope
      My brother descending another rope section after passing through the valley, where the climb becomes steeper again as you navigate the rugged terrain.

      As we continued down the trail, the next rope section appeared. This one felt like a natural slide, and with the help of the ropes, we descended smoothly. The deeper we went, the more the landscape seemed to draw us in, and we could feel the adventure unfolding around us.

      The Boulder Scramble to the Springs

      The trail continued to challenge us, with steeper and narrower paths. By the time we reached the third rope-assisted section, we had to carefully navigate a descent that demanded our full focus. At this point, the hike was becoming a true adventure—each step taking us closer to our goal.

      first-signs-of-water
      The first signs of water, a small stream flowing on the ground, marking the beginning of the springs.

      Finally, we reached a large boulder section. Here, we scrambled between massive rocks, the descent becoming increasingly steep. The altitude change added to the excitement, and our anticipation grew as we neared the first spring.

      Soon, we spotted a small pool of water—a sign that we were almost there. Depending on the season, the pool can be dry, so we didn’t linger long. We were eager to press on, ready to reach the spring just ahead.

      The Final Stretch to the Hidden Spring

      After navigating a few more rocky sections, we finally heard the sound of rushing water echoing through the canyon. The anticipation had built up as we approached the first spring, and the sight did not disappoint. The journey through ropes, narrow passages, and boulder-strewn paths had definitely been worth it.

      Just a bit further, we reached the first hot spring, the Cave of Wonders. Hidden behind a cluster of boulders, this small, shallow pool was tucked away in a natural cave-like setting. Though it wasn’t the main attraction, it was an incredible and tranquil spot to pause and take in the surroundings.

      The water was cool and refreshing, a perfect stop before heading to the next spring. We spent a few moments soaking in the calm atmosphere, then continued on, excited to reach the ultimate destination.

      After a short walk, we arrived at the second hot spring, a larger pool that sat in a more open space. This one was full during this time of year, and while it wasn’t hidden like the Cave of Wonders, it was still a beautiful sight and provided the perfect finale to our journey.

      The Hidden Gem of the Canyon

      Finally, we arrived at the spring we had been hiking toward—the ultimate prize of our journey. Nestled just beyond a series of small waterfalls, this spring surpassed all our expectations.

      The water was clear, though it became murky if you moved around too much, but the setting was epic. Surrounded by lush plants and towering rocks, the spring felt like a secret oasis tucked deep in the heart of the canyon.

      hoover-dam-bridge-seen-from-teh-base-of-the-river
      Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, as seen from the base of the Colorado River, showcasing its impressive arch over the water.

      We couldn’t resist walking a quarter mile further toward the Colorado River. The view from this spot was stunning, and we took a few moments to capture the scene with our drone. The river, flanked by cliffs and desert landscapes, looked like something out of a postcard.

      Soaking in Goldstrike Hot Springs

      We returned to the main spring and changed into our swimwear. The main pool is lined with sandbags, which were brought in by past visitors to help create smaller pools.

      These connected pools offered a variety of soaking spots, and we found the best one — a small, bathtub-sized pool situated right near the source of the hot water. The warm water flowed gently over the rocks, and we settled in, taking in the beauty around us.

      Looking up, we spotted the remains of an old ladder, a reminder of the area’s past use for dam construction. Standing tall against the canyon’s natural beauty was a strange sight, but it only added to the place’s mystique. The contrast between the human-made and the natural was fascinating, making the experience feel even more unique.

      We spent a couple of hours soaking in the Goldstrike Hot Springs, enjoying the warmth of the water and the peace of the canyon. We even played around with the soft mud, creating little shelves along the rock walls and decorating them with pebbles.

      It was one of those moments when time seemed to stand still. The peaceful atmosphere of the place made it easy to forget about the outside world and just enjoy the beauty of the moment.

      The Long, Rewarding Ascent Back

      After two hours of soaking, we decided it was time to head back. The return hike is significantly more challenging than the way in, as the entire trail is uphill. With over 1,000 feet of elevation gain, the hike out felt like a workout in itself. We made our way back up the rocks and cliffs, trying not to rush but also not wanting to stay too long as the sun was starting to set.

      “We couldn’t help but notice the group headed down as we were making our way out. Don’t forget, the hike back is just as tough, and the sun doesn’t wait for anyone!”

      Along the way, we met a friendly older couple, Gerry and Becki from Montana, who were also making their way out of the canyon. They were struggling a bit with the rocky sections, so we decided to lend a hand.

      the-long-rewarding-ascent-back
      All of us heading back up the hike, reflecting on the adventure as we make our way through the rugged terrain.

      Together, we navigated the steepest parts of the trail, offering tips and encouragement along the way. It felt good to help them out, and it made the challenging hike back feel a little easier.

      Once we made it to the top, we stopped to catch our breath and take in the view one last time before making our way back to the car. The hike had been exhausting, but the reward was worth every step.

      Tips Before You Go

      1. Trail Closures: The trail is closed from mid-May to mid-September, the hottest months of the year. Temperatures can easily exceed 110°F, making the hike dangerous. If you’re planning to visit, try to go in cooler months, preferably in the spring or fall.
      2. What to Bring: Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, snacks, and a towel. The trail can be tough on your body, and staying hydrated is crucial. Don’t forget a swimsuit if you plan to take a dip in the springs. Arriving prepared with the right gear will make your hike safer and more enjoyable.
      3. Difficulty: This is a strenuous hike. Plenty of ropes and rock scrambling make the trail challenging and rewarding. The steep incline makes the return trip especially tough, so be prepared for a workout.
      4. Leave No Trace: The springs are a remote and delicate environment. Always pack out your trash and leave the area as you found it. Goldstrike Hot Springs is a special place, and it’s up to us to keep it pristine for future visitors.

      Goldstrike Hot Springs is an unforgettable adventure. The hike is demanding, but the natural beauty of the springs and the surrounding canyon make it worth every step. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, it’s a place that never loses its charm.

      How Did Goldstrike Hot Springs Even Get Here?

      Goldstrike Hot Springs are the result of geothermal activity beneath the Earth’s surface. Deep underground, water is heated by magma from the Earth’s core. This superheated water then rises to the surface through natural channels or fractures in the rock, creating the hot springs we see today. The water temperature fluctuates, but typically stays between 100 and 110°F, providing a relaxing soak in the cool desert air. It’s a fascinating natural process that brings this hidden oasis to life.

      • Yahor Buiniakou

        Digital Designer & Outdoor Enthusiast

        Vegas Local Since 2013

        Yahor Buiniakou is a Digital Designer at Everyday.Vegas, where he merges his creative skills with his appreciation for the outdoors. When he's not working on visual projects, Yahor enjoys exploring local trails, scenic spots, and road trip destinations. His passion for adventure shines through in his writing, offering readers a glimpse into the many beautiful and unique experiences Las Vegas has to offer.

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