Mickey Hot Springs

Mickey Hot Springs is a small hot spring system in southeastern Oregon, United States. The hot springs are located at the north end of the Alvord Desert just east of Steens Mountain and north of the 2-6 Hot Springs which are much larger but less known. There are several natural bubbling mudpots and steam vents. The system contains at least 60 vents, 11 of which are dry.[1] The hydrothermal system may be in its waning stages of existence.[2]

A biofilm of thermophilic bacteria in the outflow the springs.
Mickey Hot Springs
Hot springs with Steens Mountain in background
LocationHarney County, Oregon, United States
Coordinates42.67676°N 118.34659°W / 42.67676; -118.34659
Elevation4,035 ft (1,230 m)

Each vent has a characteristic temperature ranging from 25 °C (77 °F) to 100 °C (212 °F) with the average about 77 °C (171 °F). The majority of the vents are far too hot for bathing.[3][4] The water pH is neutral to slightly alkaline.[1] An ecosystem of thermophilic organisms exist in the springs, separated by temperature strata.[2]

References
  1. "Biocomplexity in Extreme Environments". Experimental Project to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR). University of Idaho. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
  2. Zachery Walter John Oestreicher; Sherry L. Cady (November 2, 2003). "A Unique Bacterial Mineralizing Environment at Mickey Hot Springs, Southeastern Oregon". The Geological Society of America. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
  3. "Mickey Hot Springs". blm.gov.
  4. Terry, Richard (2015-01-20). "Oregon hot springs beckon with warm water to blunt winter's chill (photos)". Oregon Live. Retrieved 2022-05-23.


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