Searching for outdoor excitement less than an hour from the Las Vegas Strip? Head to Gold Strike Hot Springs, a hidden gem located just outside historic Boulder City.
Gold Strike Hot Springs in Nevada is a one-of-a-kind oasis. This destination is a favorite among more advanced hikers and well worth the trek for the amazing views and serene hot springs.
The 2.5-mile, 600-foot descent into scenic Gold Strike Canyon means navigating house-sized boulders with the help of a fixed-rope system, so be prepared to work up a sweat for your soak.
Depending on the season and weather conditions, travelers can encounter three different hot springs along the trail. Thinking of taking a dip? At the cliffs, water temperatures average 109 degrees, so go a little further from the heat source to soak up the natural goodness. Hot spring pools are a much milder 100 degrees—perfect for relaxing after the hike.
Accessing Gold Strike Canyon Hot Springs
Part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, the Gold Strike Hot Springs Trailhead is located off Highway 93. Park in the free parking lot near the trailhead, located just before the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
This advanced hike starts on a gravel trailhead that leads you down to a section of the Colorado River packed with grottos, hot spring pools, and small waterfalls. Plan for about 3 to 4 hours of hiking and scrambling in each direction, plus extra time to soak up this hot spring’s full potential. The hike is just over 5 miles total but also has a 1,000-foot elevation change, which means experienced hikers will be in their element.
The scenery is spectacular as you navigate enormous, red rock canyon walls dotted with vibrant native plants and desert bighorn sheep. Once you reach the bottom, the canyon opens up to the riverbank. Here, cliff jumping is about as perfect as it gets—plus, you can take in an unblemished view of the famous Hoover Dam.
Alternatively, you can reach Gold Strike by kayaking through the stunning Black Canyon on the Colorado River. This is a great option if you aren’t a veteran hiker or are worried about using the ropes to climb up and down the boulders. You can rent a kayak from Desert Adventures and other outfitters in Las Vegas and Boulder City.
This spot attracts crowds, so it’s best to start hiking or kayaking early before it gets too hot. We recommend starting before sunrise or going during the week to avoid the crowds. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time so you don’t have to rush.
This hot springing adventure provides incredible southern Nevada recreation, wildlife, history, and a whole lot of relaxation. With a willing spirit and an uninhibited sense of adventure, Golf Strike Hot Springs is sure to be a memorable experience.
Seasonal Closure May Through September
Due to extreme heat, the trail to this popular hot spring is typically closed from May 15 to September 30 every summer. Temperatures can exceed 115 degrees in the Las Vegas area, making it dangerous to try and access the hot springs. Even during the cooler months when the Gold Strike Hot Springs Trailhead is open, it’s important to check the weather and bring lots of water to prevent dehydration. Get the latest updates from Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Travel Nevada Pro Tip
Looking to get a little out there? Check out other Nevada hot springs worth discovering.
Tips for Staying Safe on the Gold Strike Trail
The steep climb into and out of Gold Strike incorporates a series of eight, 20-foot rope climbs that are well beyond beginner level. Here are our pro tips for what to bring and how to get home safely.
- Bring far more water than you think you’ll need, even during winter months.
- Make sure you know your own hiking and climbing abilities before embarking on an advanced trail like this one.
- Never hike alone.
- Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and watch out for rattlesnakes.
- Bring and apply sunscreen to help protect your skin from UV rays.
- Always let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return.
- Bring a headlamp if you’re hiking later in the day so you don’t get caught in the dark.
- Be cautious when climbing over rocks. Try to keep your shoes dry so you don’t slip and fall.
- Check the weather before heading out and be aware of the danger of flash floods or high water levels from the Colorado River.
- Be sure to brush up on our Hot Spring Etiquette Guide before you go.
Hours:
The trailhead for Gold Strike Canyon closes seasonally from May through September due to extreme summer temperatures. Gold Strike Hot Springs hikes should be completed during daylight hours.
Admission:
No day-use permits are required to access Gold Strike Hot Springs. Overnight camping is not permitted. For more information on planning your visit to this Nevada hot spring, get in touch with Lake Mead National Recreation Area at (775) 293-8990.
If you’ll be visiting Lake Mead National Recreation Area, the entrance fee is $15 per person, $20 per motorcycle, and $25 per vehicle.
This Location:
City
Boulder CityRegion
Southern Nevada
