This Beautiful Trail in Alaska Leads You Right To A Gorgeous Hot Spring
Head out on the Angel Rocks to the Chena Hot Springs trailhead for a beautiful hike year-round. This awesome adventure is a perennial favorite with those who frequent the Interior. Spend a full day taking in the amazing sights and the crisp Alaskan air on a scenic drive to the trailhead followed by a great hike through the hills. Arrive at the hot springs with a fabulous outdoor rock pool, filled with mineral water prized for having rejuvenating properties. You’ll love this day trip in Interior Alaska, especially in August and September when the leaves are afire – but any time of year will do. This hot spring in Alaska is truly almost too good to be true. Check it out:
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
The Angel Rocks trailhead is at 48.9 Chena Hot Springs Road.
Carey Seward
The trail starts with a stretch following the babbling North Fork of the Chena River through the vibrant boreal forest, mostly comprised of spruce and birch.
The birch trees are striking with their paper-white bark and bright, golden leaves in the autumn.
Carey Seward
Look for interesting wild plants along the trail like witches' broom, arnica, poppies, sage, and dog-bone.
The trail rises and heads across a boggy stretch, so a boardwalk was built to save hikers from wet feet.
Carey Seward
Some signage discusses fire damage from a forest fire years ago and the process of rebuilding the forest.
The Angel Rocks are large granite tors that formed millions of years ago when molten rock cooled before reaching the surface.
Carey Seward
Take the 3.7 mile loop, see the spectacular view, and hike back to the parking lot for a shorter version of the trip.
The full Angel Rocks to Chena Hot Springs Trail reaches an elevation of 1900 feet and stretches eight miles.
Carey Seward
To reach the hot springs, head over the summit on the alpine tundra and climb a forested ridge before descending to the springs.
After a brisk hike, a soothing hot springs is the perfect pairing.
Carey Seward
The Chena Hot Springs Resort has been a place people have gathered to soak in the warm waters since the Gold Rush, and probably much longer.
The pools are all naturally heated by the Earth.
Carey Seward
Hot water laden with minerals flows into the hot tubs and pools with modern filtration systems. The indoor pool is mild, warm and open for all ages.
There is an outdoor hot tub adjacent to the deck.
Carey Seward
In the summer, you can bask in the sun and, in the winter, you can cool off in the frigid air and witness the aurora while having a good, long soak.
The outdoor rock pool is quite hot, and reserved only for those aged 18 years and older.
Carey Seward
This quiet place for relaxing has large rocks to rest on, a cool fountain that constantly sprays a stream of pleasant water, and a powerful hose to break up knots in tired muscles.
A long soak is heavenly after such a vigorous hike.
Carey Seward
Take the Angel Rocks to Chena Hot Springs Trail for a healthy, fun day trip in Alaska. Enjoy the beautiful experiences the Interior has to offer.
Address: Chena Hot Springs Road, Chena Hot Springs Rd, Alaska 99712, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Hot Springs in Alaska
January 27, 2022
Tori Jane
How many natural hot springs in Alaska are there?
Alaska is home to a decently sized handful of natural hot springs. Though the vastness of the state means it’s hard to say exactly how many there are, we do know that there are at least 79 natural hot springs in Alaska. Nearly half of these occur along the Aleutian chain and along the Alaskan Peninsula. Others can be found in various points across the state, like in southeastern Alaska; some of those include Baranof Warm Springs, Chief Shakes Hot Springs, and White Sulphur Hot Springs – among plenty of others. More can be found in the western part of the state, and still more in the central areas of the state. It’s a great place to be when it comes to hot springs! Many folks may not think of Alaska as a hot spring paradise, but maybe they ought to.
What are some wonderful winter getaways in Alaska?
That’s more like it! Alaska is the perfect place for an epic winter getaway. Like, come on – Alaska really shines when the snow begins to fall! There are almost endless things to do, see, and experience; this state really comes alive during the coldest time of year. For example, you could always visit any of the above-mentioned hot springs and/or hot springs resorts with that special someone; few things are as lovely as soaking in a nice, hot spring during a brisk and chilly day – especially with your special person. Other ideas include watching the northern lights dance across the sky from an amazing cabin or Airbnb rental, enjoying a winter horseback ride in the Kenai Peninsula, going on a water top cruise through the Tracy Arm Fjord… seriously, the possibilities are almost endless. For some more ideas, check out this list of 18 amazing places in Alaska you have to get on that bucket list ASAP.
Address: Chena Hot Springs Road, Chena Hot Springs Rd, Alaska 99712, USA
Alaska In Your Inbox
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
