There's been some sort of resort at this location since the 1900s. But one after another they failed financially, largely because of the outrageously high cost of electricity in this out-of-the-way location about 60 miles north of Fairbanks. Then the current owner of the resort banded together with United Technologies (parent company of Carrier, the HVAC equipment giant) and the U.S. Department of Energy in 2006 to use the geothermal resource to produce electricity.
Although
the hot spring "rock pool" seems scorching at 106°, that's
actually a low temperature for geothermal power production,
and new technologies are being pursued that will make it possible for many
other small, low temp geothermal fields to be productive resources at a
greatly reduced cost of production. If you're interested in the
details, check out their geothermal information web page at http://www.chenahotsprings.com/geothermal-power/
The hot water leaks into ponds and streams all over the resort property. But as to the leisurely soaking, the resort offers an inside, chlorinated, pool or the au naturale "rock pool" outside.
Like most hot springs, the water has a high chemical content and is great for the skin -- not so great for the hair. And it's a very relaxing soak ....until you have to face the dash back to your room in a wet bathing suit.
Hey, if the ducks can take it .... we can too!
