Leaving the serene beauty of Tekanee Springs behind, we set sail southward. Our voyage is meticulously charted around the majestic glaciers and inviting hot springs that dot the Alaskan coastline. Each destination promises a unique blend of natural splendor and peaceful solitude.

As we settled into the calm of Baranof Warm Springs, the late evening enveloped us in its deep, gray embrace, shrouding our surroundings in darkness as we anchored our boat, with only the beam of our spotlight illuminating the immediate path ahead.

As dawn broke and we awoke to a new day, the anchorage unveiled its stunning beauty, even beneath the gentle patter of rain. We found ourselves anchored at the mouth of the estuary, its waters inviting exploration during high tide. The nearby hot springs, nestled among vibrant greenery, offered a promise of rejuvenation and tranquility.

Baranof Warm Springs are a series of ten geothermal mineral springs located in the small community of Baranof Warm Springs 20 miles east of Sitka, Alaska on Baranof Island. The springs are surrounded by the Tongass National Forest. Access to the hot springs is by boat only, no road or air service is available. There is a free public bathhouse on the island in addition to primitive undeveloped hot springs.

Baranof Warm Springs was used frequently by the Tlingit of Angoon. People of western descent did not find the springs unti 1891.It was serviced by a post office from 1907 through 1912, under the name of Baranoff.

The hot springs were a marvel of nature, set against a backdrop of towering trees and rugged rock formations. Each pool offered a unique temperature, catering to every preference. The river, rushing by with a powerful current, added a dynamic contrast to the tranquil pools, enhancing the magical atmosphere.

Baranof Warm Springs operates primarily as a caretaker community during the winter months, with around 15 seasonal residences and occasional summer guests. The Baranof Wilderness Lodge and Resort remains the sole commercial entity, along with property taxes and dock fees, the city allocates funds for the upkeep of a boardwalk that serves as the main pathway and docking area for transient vessels.

The Baranof Property Owners Association supports the hiring of a winter caretaker for occupied homes, maintains a city-owned picnic shelter, operates a public bathhouse with three tubs, and oversees communal warm springs pools. Additionally, another caretaker is present to manage the Baranof Lodge from October 1 to May 1, in line with the seasonal return of the owners.

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