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With over a century worth of history, Manley Hot Springs, located in its namesake, provides guests with a unique and unexpected soaking experience. Nestled inside of a greenhouse, this site will make you feel as if you have been transported out of Alaska and into a lush oasis.

History

Founded in 1902 by John Karshner, the Manley Hot Springs started as a small homestead and vegetable farm. Thanks to a telegraph station built by the US Army, the area soon became a supply point for local miners as well as a place to take a quick soak.

Image of the "Welcome Sign" at Manley Hot Springs in Alaska
The welcome sign greets you as you enter Manley Hot Springs. Photo by: James Brooks

In 1907, the Hot Springs Resort Hotel was built and featured 45 guest rooms, electric lights, a bar, a restaurant, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Unfortunately, the resort burned down six years later, and with mining activity on the decline, the area was slowly reduced to a ghost town.

Hot Springs

The Manley Hot Springs, which is operated by Chuck and Gladys Dart, is a unique site comprised of three concrete soaking tubs located inside of a spring-fed greenhouse.

Image of concrete hot springs pools at Manley Hot Springs in Alaska
Soaking amidst the vegetation at Manley Hot Springs. Photo by: Sean Salmon

For a small fee, guests can soak in the geothermal water piped from the source while being surrounded by a cornucopia of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Being that there are not many hot springs around the world that are located within a greenhouse, this site provides visitors with a rare opportunity.

Accommodations

The only nearby accommodations are at the Manley Roadhouse, which offers modern rooms in two styles.

The shared rooms are an excellent way to save money and require guests to use communal bathrooms at the end of the hall. The luxury rooms give visitors more space and privacy in addition to having a private bathroom, cable tv, and a mini-fridge.

Image of the Manley Roadhouse in Alaska
If you’re looking to spend the night, stay at the nearby Manley Roadhouse. Photo by: Bryan McLellan

Additionally, there are private cabins for rent, which are situated on the outskirts of the woods and within walking distance of the roadhouse.

At the Manley Roadhouse, you can enjoy the warm comfort of a full-service restaurant and bar. As the unofficial community center for this small town, this is the perfect place to socialize and make new friends!

Getting to the Manley Hot Springs

The scenic drive to the Manley Hot Springs is said to be the most beautiful in all of Alaska. As you travel the road towards this small community, you’ll be able to gaze out over the Minto Flats wetlands, which are abundant in wildlife.

From Fairbanks

  1. Take the Steese Highway to the Elliot Highway, which connects to Fox.
  2. At Livengood, 80 miles north of Fairbanks, continue on the Elliot Highway, which is on the left.
  3. After 25 miles, you will have arrived!

Details

Address: 100 Front St, Manley Hot Springs, Alaska 99756

Phone: 907-672-3161

Season: Year-round

Website: manleylodge.com