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You could say that the Tenakee Hot Springs acts uniquely as the town square meeting place for locals who desire a long, hot bath, sans swimsuits, while catching up on the local gossip of Southeast Alaska. The remote city of Tenakee Springs, while only home to a little over 100 individuals, is a warm and welcoming town, sure to help you unwind after a long journey.

History

The bathhouse has been a central fixture of the community of Tenakee Springs, Alaska, since the early 1900s. The original open pool was enlarged and a log cabin was built over the springs for protection from the harsh Alaskan weather.

Owned and operated by the city and a volunteer committee since the 1930s, this unique and vital structure is free and open to residents, loggers, fishermen, miners, or anyone who desires a long, hot soak.

Image of kayakers on the water at Tenakee Springs, Alaska
Enjoy Alaska’s incredible scenic views from a kayak at Tenakee Springs. Photo by: Joseph

A more formal restoration and geothermal heating project occurred in 2012, repairing the baths, roofs, heating, and exterior siding. Now, citizen volunteers work together and continually raise funds to clean and drain the pool four times per year and keep the grounds enjoyable for locals and visitors, alike.

Hot Spring Pool

Tenakee Hot Springs bathhouse is available year-round for your enjoyment. It’s nourishing, mineral waters flow at a rate of approximately seven gallons per minute and 107°F. The 6×9 foot pool is 5 feet deep and keeps the room warm even in the coldest of Alaskan winters.

Note: This bathhouse has gender-specific times. This is to ensure privacy since bathers are supposed to be without clothing when soaking.

Lodging

The quaint, small settlement of Tenakee Springs offers cabin, cottage, and lodge rentals to its visitors. Clean and comfortable homes are stocked with all the amenities required for a relaxing stay. Any other supplies you may need can be found across the street from the bathhouse at Tenakee Springs Market.

Image of waterfront homes in Tenakee Springs, Alaska
Tenakee Springs is home to only a little over 100 people, but they are all incredibly hospitable. Photo by: Unseen Alaska

Established in 1899, this is this town’s one and only shop for food, liquor, and hardware. Remember, all visitors should book lodging reservations well in advance, as the small number of locations book 6-12 months ahead of time.

Attractions

Visitors to Tenakee Springs should plan a grand adventure to complement their time soaking in the warm and comforting hot spring. Tenakee inlet offers peaceful fishing in its calm waters. It is also a hidden gem for whale watching as humpback whales and orca frequently swim by to say, “hello”.

Image of orca breaching the water in alaska
Go humpback whale and orca watching while visiting Tenakee Springs. Photo by: Christopher Michel

Kayaking and sailing, or just a long hike on a remote trail, offers some of the most leisurely spent days you can imagine while taking in the slow-paced life of Alaska. Don’t forget to make a stop next door to the hot springs bathhouse at the Tenakee Museum to learn all about the history of this special town.

Getting There

Visitors and residents access most parts of the Alaskan wilderness by ferry or seaplane and Tenakee Springs, Alaska, is no different.

Image of a seaplane in the water in front of mountains
To get to Tenakee you will have to arrive by seaplane or boat. Photo by: Sanjoy Ghosh

From fishermen to seaplane pilots to curious visitors, Tenakee Springs is a restful and rejuvenating place for all. You may book Alaska Seaplanes Service or Ward Air daily charter or take the Alaska Marine Highway System by State Ferry from Juneau to arrive in Tenakee for a unique and bubbling, warm hot springs soak.

Details

Location: Tenakee Springs, Alaska 99841

Season: Year-round

GPS: 57°46’24.59 N, -135°13’6.60 W

Website: tenakeespringsak.com