Alvord Hot Springs
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Alvord Hot Springs is a geothermal spring located in Harney County in southeastern Oregon in the United States.
Geography
The spring lies at Script error: No such module "convert". elevation on the western edge of the Alvord Desert into which the spring flows and eventually evaporates. To the west of the springs lies Steens Mountain, a north–south running range with a peak of Script error: No such module "convert". above sea level.
Soaking pools
The source averages 174 °F (79 °C), but a system of pipes cools and regulates the flow of incoming water so that the pool temperature is maintained about 105 °F (44 °C). The spring smells somewhat of sulfur, yet not enough to dissuade visitors from soaking in one of two small, man-made rectangular concrete soaking pools, which are 3 feet (1 m) deep and either 25 by 50 feet (7.5 x 15 m)[1] or 10 by 20 (3 x 6 m).[2][3] The soaking pools have a covered, as well as an open portion, the covered portion being rustic in its corrugated sheet metal and wood construction.[1]
The thermal springs from the Alvord Basin discharge sodium-bicarbonate-chloride-type water with a significant proportion of sulfate.[4]
Public access
Though they are on private property, before 2013, the use of the hot springs was free and open to the public year-round.[5] In early 2013, the property owners (the Alvord Ranch) installed a full-time caretaker in a trailer and started construction of a parking-lot and a small building which will house a store. Access to the hot springs is no longer free.Script error: No such module "Unsubst". Maintenance is volunteered by local residents and all visitors are encouraged to help keep the springs clean.[1]
See also
References
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