About Ringbolt Hot Springs
Ringbolt Hot Springs (also called Arizona Hot Spring) sits inside a narrow slot canyon along the Colorado River, just south of Hoover Dam. The main draw is a roughly 20-foot hot waterfall that pours over smooth rock into a pool at the base of the canyon. Below the falls, additional pools collect at varying temperatures as hot water mixes with cooler seepage from the canyon walls.
Directions to Ringbolt Hot Springs
35.9802, -114.6976
From Las Vegas, take US-93 South toward Boulder City and Hoover Dam. Cross into Arizona and about 4 miles past the dam, turn right onto the dirt road to the White Rock Canyon trailhead. Follow the trail approximately 3 miles to the Colorado River, losing about 800 feet in elevation through desert washes. At the river, turn right and follow the shoreline upstream to the slot canyon mouth. Navigate upstream through the slot canyon, using the installed metal ladder to pass a steep section, until you reach the hot waterfall and pools. Allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way. Lake Mead entrance fee or America the Beautiful pass required. No water on the trail.
Best Time to Visit
October through April. Summer trail temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, making the hike dangerous. Winter and spring bring daytime highs in the 60s-70s, much better for a 3-mile desert hike with an 800-foot climb back out.
Tips
- ✓Bring at least 3 liters of water per person. There is no water on the trail.
- ✓Never enter the slot canyon if rain or thunderstorms are in the forecast; flash floods here are deadly.
- ✓Start early, especially in summer when trail temperatures exceed 110°F by midday.
- ✓Wear sturdy boots with ankle support for the rocky trail and slot canyon scrambling.
- ✓Bring a headlamp. The slot canyon is dark and delays could mean hiking out after sunset.
- ✓The metal ladder gets scorching hot in summer; lightweight gloves help.
- ✓Display your Lake Mead NRA pass or America the Beautiful pass on your dashboard.
- ✓The return is all uphill. Reserve more time and energy for the hike out.