Wood Burning Tub

A project I've had in mind for quite some time now is to build a wood burning hot tub. The idea came to me several years ago while on a fishing trip in Southwest, Alaska guided by our now old friend, Paul Johnson; assisted and supported by his wife Tammy. The Johnson's hot tub you see below sits inconspicuously atop a rocky point overlooking the ocean at Gull Cove--the precise location of the nearly famous "Johnson Lodge and Cabins".

The unique thing about this style tub is, it doesn't require a power source to heat the water. That role is fulfilled by the stainless steel wood burning stove located within the structure itself. Having no need for electricity allows the owners the flexibility of establishing their hot tub's residency at just about any locality of their choosing.

This particular hot-tub was constructed from western red cedar boards, approximately 2" x 6" and about 4' in length. I suppose redwood might work equally as well. Cyprus or teak would probably also work, but it might be a good idea to check with a wood expert prior to investing a bunch of time and money building a backyard wood-burner.

I can't think of a better way to relax on a chilly Alaska (or for that matter Arkansas or Missouri) evening, than sitting in a piping hot, wood burning hot-tub with a few friends or family members, while sipping the beverage of your choice and enjoying the distinct aroma of wood smoke as it drifts up from the belly of your hot water tub. As a bonus, depending on where you live, I'm betting most of your neighbors aren't likely to have one of these bad-boys. And in the arena of beating out your best friend Marangus for the title of "Owner of the Coolest Outdoor Equipment", you're almost assured the front seat in that ongoing contest!

~The Johnson outdoor wood-burning hot-tub

~Ty, Matt and "Yard" enjoy the steaming hot water

The only downside to being non electric is that in order to lower the water temperature if it gets too hot for your liking, is to add cold water. If you have access to running water it might be a good idea to have a hose nearby for that purpose.

~I told Cousin Eddie "If you (description of this picture), you might be a redneck!"

~A wood fence protects the inhabitants from getting burned by the stove