Lightfeather Hot Spring
Lightfeather is a natural spring along the Middle Fork of the Gila River, a short hike from the Gila Cliff Dwellings visitor center area. The walk includes two river crossings, so plan on wet feet.
- Getting there
- Hike 0.75 mi from the Middle Fork trailhead with two river crossings
- Cost and hours
- Free
- Pools
- Rock pools where hot spring water mixes with the Middle Fork of the Gila River
- Reservations
- Not taken
- Stay the night
- Campgrounds near the Gila Cliff Dwellings
- Managed by
- Gila National Forest (Gila Wilderness)
Good to know. Source water is scalding; soak only where it mixes with the river and avoid crossings when water is high
In any natural hot spring, keep your head above the water. Health officials advise it because of a rare amoeba that can enter through the nose.
New to hot springs? A slow soak is a five-step way to enjoy the water safely.
Good for: camping, quiet soaking. Something out of date? Let us know and we’ll check it.
No hot spring nearby?
Warm-water sessions at your own pool, or your community’s, in and around Flagstaff, by request. And there are small water practices you can do at home, in a bath.