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You won’t find many hot springs that are registered as a historic place. Pilgrim Hot Springs in Nome, Alaska is one of them. Once called Kruszgamepa Hot Springs, this now preserved location is home to one of the best warm waters you will find in the state.

History of Pilgrim Hot Springs

Back in the 1900’s, miners frequented this establishment after a long days work to relax and socialize at the dancehall and saloon. Unfortunately the placed burned down and was given to the Catholic orphanage to take care of the children. As time went on the place was eventually deserted and is now a popular ghost town to visit.

Pilgrim Hot Springs. Photo by TVJ

The geothermal pools still remain for locals and tourists to visit. It’s even owned by a company that has the rights to build the area back up to what it once was and bring in new attractions to help the city of Nome.

Pilgrim Hot Springs Pools

You do need to get permission to access the orphanage and Pilgrim Hot Springs. It’s only $10 and will allow you to soak while being engulfed in a historical setting surrounding by trees. You can obtain your pass at the Nome Visitor Center, Aurora Inn, or Bering Straits Native Corporation. Once you make the 68 mile drive while taking in some of the most scenic views surrounding Nome, you will be glad you made the trek and paid the small fee to get a glimpse into the history of Alaska.

We do recommend you pack some food and water as there aren’t many amenities in the area and will come in handy when you least expect it. Because it is a historical landmark there is also no lodging in the area. However, there are some campsites and nearby lodging in the city of Nome.

Getting There

Pilgrim Hot Springs is easiest to get to by traveling from Nome, AK.

– Drive down the Nome-Kougarok Road towards mile 53.
– There will be a marked sign going left towards the springs.
– Hopefully you have a four wheel drive car as the last seven mile stretch is down a gravel road until you reach your destination.

Details

Address: Kougarok Rd, Nome, Alaska 99762

Season: All Year

GPS: 65°05′34″N 164°55′23″W