Ruby Valley Hot Springs
Several clear blue spring pools, the largest about 30 feet across, between Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge and Franklin Lake south of Elko. The Ruby Mountains rise to the west. You can soak at Ruby Valley Hot Springs for free.
| Access | Free, public land No admission fee and open year-round, but the last miles are rough dirt roads; 4WD is recommended and winter travel is not advised. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Jiggs, NV Directions |
| Water | about 100 °F; nearby springs can be scalding |
| Season | year-round; winter road conditions are poor |
| Reservations | not needed |
| Website | travelnevada.com |
Best time to soak: Ruby Valley Hot Springs
From November to April average highs near Jiggs stay at 39 to 56 °F, with nights down to 14 °F. Expect frost from October to March. Check road and trail conditions with the land manager before driving up. In July highs reach 88 °F. Hot water on a hot day dehydrates you fast, so soak in short sessions and drink water.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39 °F | 14 °F | 5 |
| Feb | 42 °F | 18 °F | 4 |
| Mar | 50 °F | 25 °F | 4 |
| Apr | 56 °F | 31 °F | 5 |
| May | 66 °F | 39 °F | 4 |
| Jun | 78 °F | 46 °F | 2 |
| Jul | 88 °F | 53 °F | 2 |
| Aug | 87 °F | 51 °F | 2 |
| Sep | 77 °F | 41 °F | 2 |
| Oct | 64 °F | 30 °F | 3 |
| Nov | 50 °F | 22 °F | 4 |
| Dec | 39 °F | 15 °F | 5 |
Pack for the hot springs
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Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. View on Amazon - Cold-day pick SUN CUBE hooded changing robe poncho Change in and out of a wet suit at a trailhead with no changing room, and stay warm after a winter soak. View on Amazon
- Earth Pak roll-top waterproof dry bag Keeps your phone, keys and dry clothes safe on wet rocks next to the pool. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have to pay at Ruby Valley Hot Springs?
Yes. Ruby Valley Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Ruby Valley Hot Springs?
About 100 °F; nearby springs can be scalding.
When is Ruby Valley Hot Springs open?
year-round; winter road conditions are poor.