Warm Springs

Amazing Water Fall at Warm Springs

An early departure from Petersburg at near slack tide made for an easy exit.  Today will be a long travel day (approximately 11 hours or 77 miles) as we are headed across Frederick Sound into Chatham Strait and finishing at Warm Springs. 

Frederick Sound is known for its wildlife and while we are a tad disappointed that we do not see whales today, we are treated to sightings of three otter groups, a single seal, and a bunch of sea lions hauled out on a buoy. 

The seas are relatively calm and we make good time.  Just before we reach the entrance to Warm Springs, a small cargo vessel that veers to starboard to moor on a private dock passes us.  We continue to the public dock that has been replaced since our visit in 2015.  Ownership of many of Alaska’s public docks has been transferred from the State to local Boroughs.  The Borough of Sitka now owns this dock and while it is very nice to have such a sturdy dock with new bull rails and a covered gangplank, it does take away a bit from the rustic charm of Warm Springs. 

Warm Springs Dock

Armed with a can of Bear Spray (the locals refer to the product as “seasoning”) and the portable VHS radio, I follow the boardwalk to the Warm Springs.  I find that I am alone and opt to slip “au natural” into the beautiful warm pool.  After a good long soak, I head back to the boat for drinks on the deck and dinner. 

Warm Springs Resort for Sale - Takers?

Barrie is fighting a cold and heads to bed even earlier than usual.  I finish tidying up and decide to walk up the dock to the bathhouse.  The water is piped here from the hot springs into 3 private soaking rooms.  The water flows continuously into the deep tubs that view out to the inlet.  I savor the alone time as I soak and listen to the rain fall. 

Warm Springs Public Bathhouse

The weather forecast for tomorrow calls for high winds.  We will listen again in the morning and decide whether to stay put for a day or work our way north towards Glacier Bay.