The California High Sierra has an infinite number of activities to get your heart pumping. But, it’s also the perfect place to kick back and relax. The Sierra Nevada range is dotted with many world class hot springs. From luxurious resorts to natural pools, the High Sierra hot springs are where it’s at for a good soak.
Grover Hot Springs
In the least populated county of the Golden State. At the end of a quiet stretch of road. This is where you’ll find a one-of-a kind California State Park – Grover Hot Springs. West of quaint Markleeville and south of bustling South Lake Tahoe, it feels like an oasis from todays’ world. Bubbling out of the ground at a scalding 148 degrees F, the waters are cooled down between 102 to 105 degrees F based on the season. This 550-acre park contains open pine forests, sagebrush, and meadows along with the pool complex that you can soak your worries away.
Keough’s Hot Springs
Established in 1919, it’s home to the largest hot springs pool in the Eastern Sierra. A waterfall cooling system, cascading into the larger pool, keeps these waters at the ideal temperatures. In the summer heat, the water holds at 86 – 89 degrees for a relaxing, cooling soak. And in the winter chill, a perfect 90 – 92 degrees will warm up anyone who takes a dip. It’s always the perfect temperature for exercise, splashing, or just floating your cares away. If you’re looking for a bit more adventure but yearning for comfort, they also offer a luxury furnished tent cabin. With a fire pit for ambiance or roasting s’mores, your romantic getaway is complete with a soak in the hot springs.
Benton Hot Springs
Learn more about the Inn at Benton Hot Springs
A uniquely charming and rustic B&B resort is the perfect description. It features seven rooms at the Inn, housed in a 1940s historic building, two private historic houses with private hot tubs and nine private tub sites for day and overnight use. These waters are considered to be the purest on the planet. Natural mineral water rises to the earth’s surface at 140 degrees allowing you to relax and rejuvenate while watching the stars in a historic locale.
Travertine Hot Springs
Learn more about Travertine Hot Springs
If you’re looking for more of a natural hot springs atmosphere with minimal amenities, Travertine Hot Springs is the one for you. Located south of Bridgeport, these pools are one of the easier to get to and offer unforgettable views of the surrounding mountains. There is an ADA-accessible improved cement tub closest to the parking area and suitable for larger groups of four to eight people. If you’re looking for a more natural feel, continue down the pathway (passing the restrooms) to discover three smaller natural pools that each fit up to three people. Go here to learn more about this pool and other hot springs in the region.
The High Sierra hot springs run the full gambit of amenities when it comes to rest and relaxation. From amenity-free to luxurious, you’ll find the pool that fits your needs. Come visit for a soak and create an adventure of your own.
Author: Alex Silgalis
Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
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