Monitor Valley Hot Springs is a remote geothermal area with views and ranch ruins
Monitor Valley Hot Springs, also known as Potts Ranch Hot Springs, is one of a series of natural hot springs in the high desert of Monitor Valley, about 40 miles southeast of the ghost town of Austin.
On the way to the hot springs, you will pass Potts, an abandoned ranch that once consisted of two buildings. The ranch is located a short distance from the springs.
During our last visit in 2019, soaking was not possible at this site, as there were no tubs or pools available.
Because this location lies between two other interesting geothermal areas - Spencer Hot Springs, 25 miles to the northwest, and Diana Punchbowl, 7 miles to the south—you may want to check for any changes over time.
Hot water emerges from the source at about 110°F (43°C) and flows down a ditch, where it is collected through a series of pipes. In theory, it could be directed into a soaking tub.
A bench and a wooden deck mark where a soaking area may have once been intended. Hopefully, bathing will become possible again at this unique hot spring site in the future.
Places to Stay Near Monitor Valley Hot Springs
Camping is not allowed at the hot springs. The nearest U.S. Forest Service campgrounds are Toquima Cave Campground (about 13 miles away) and Pine Creek Campground (about 26 miles away).
For lodging, the closest options are in Austin, 64 miles to the northeast, and Eureka, 66 miles to the northeast.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Austin
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Eureka
Monitor Valley Hot Springs | Facts
Location: 28 miles southeast of Austin • Central Nevada • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Undeveloped, bathing opportunity is limited
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: None
Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: High-clearance 4WD vehicle is suggested for the final few miles
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 6,620 ft (2,017 m)
Water T° (source): 110°F (43°C)
More Adventures
Directions to Monitor Valley Hot Springs
From Austin,
- Travel about 12 miles east on US-50 to NV-376 S
- Turn right onto NV-376 S and after 0.3 miles turn left onto the first graded forest road NF-001
- Follow southeast on NF-001 for about 24 miles to Monitor Valley Road NV-82
- Turn right onto NV-82 and after a ranch keep left
- Continue for about 3.5 miles to a fork and bear left
- Drive 2.9 miles on FR 25 to a fork ( you will pass abandoned Potts Ranch)
- Bear right on a dirt road and continue 0.5 miles to the hot springs.
We were there Saturday January 8th 2022, the tub and all improvements have been removed.
Were you at the actual Potts hot springs with the large watering tub where you empty and fill it? Near the abandon ranch? Thanks