Maximize your spring break by heading to one of Alaska’s handful of natural hot springs. Goddard Hot Springs is just 16 miles south of Sitka, and although the springs are natural, there are also plenty of manmade comforts and luxuries. Open shelters keep the hot springs free of excess snow, and you can choose from a variety of natural temperatures from piping hot to Alaska-cold. (In Sitka, the term “hot” springs is highly subjective!)

You’ll also find outhouses for conveniences, and boardwalks make getting from one spring to another easy. Boats can be anchored in the nearby bay, or quickly go ashore in the skiffs. However, like much of Alaska’s greatest “hot spots,” the springs can only be accessed by boat or floatplane, so plan ahead.

Floatplane Bookings

Harris Aircraft Services and Sitka Seaplane Base are two of the biggest floatplane providers in the area. Harris specializes in services to Goddard as well as Baranof Warm Springs. Based in Sitka, the fleet features two twin-engine IFR Navajos with daily services to a number of destinations in the region. Charter a flight, and customize your adventure.

While there are also many boat services, a real Alaska experience demands a trip in a floatplane. Add a flight seeing tour to your hot springs charter, or schedule a drop-off at one of the many remote cabin lakes for a picnic you’ll never forget.