After a long day of hiking, fishing, or biking, there’s nothing like soaking out the stress in one of Mammoth’s natural hot tubs. A delightful relic from the volcanic activity that rocked the crater millions of years ago, Mammoth is home to some of the world’s most beautiful (and most soothing) spots to soak in the splendor. In today’s post we’ll run through our favorite hot spring haunts, so you can get right down to relaxing!
Travertine Hot Springs
With stunning views of the Sierras, naturally soothing spring water, and campsites to keep you close, the Travertine Hot Springs is the perfect place to bathe in scenic wonder. Whether you watch the sun rise or set from one of Travertine’s natural pools, you’ll feel the city’s stress float away and be replaced by the content pleasure of nature’s embrace.
Benton Hot Springs
If you’re in the mood for a soak with a little more human-influence, Benton Hot Springs offers the best of both worlds. With 9 tubs to choose from, you can soak away your worries surrounded by antique redwood, stone, or fiberglass – all filled with crystal clear spring water, right from the source. Temperature controls also make this spot a little more manageable for groups and children, as opposed to hoping everyone’s comfortable in the more natural hot spring set-ups.
Buckeye Hot Springs
Adjacent to Yosemite, and tucked away in one of our most beautiful National Forests, the Buckeye Hot Springs offer you a chance to unwind in the midst of some awesome natural wonders. Hot mineral water cascades over a cave that offers a cozy respite from the sun at mid-day, and the nearby brook offers a soothing soundtrack (and a chance to cool off should you run a little hot). With camping, hiking, and biking options adjacent, Buckeye has a little bit of something for anyone, and a whole lot of amazing for everyone.
Crowley Hot Springs
Also known as Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, these natural pools sit in the middle of a valley meadow. With nothing to block the view, you’ve got a 360-degree seat to the Sierra’s majesty, and the naturally heated mineral water is perfect for soaking off that road-trip soreness. The pools begin after a short (less than a quarter-mile) hike, which makes Crowley an ideal spot for groups, families, or anyone who’s ready to get right down to relaxing.
Hilltop Hot Springs
Last but not least, Hilltop Hot Springs serves up some stunning views of Mammoth Lakes and the warm water your body craves after a night on the mountain. It’s proximity to town and another short-hike to the pools makes this one of the more popular soaking spots, so you won’t get that same sense of isolation that the other pools can provide – but it’s earned that popularity by being so incomparably beautiful. If you don’t want to wander too far into the wilderness and don’t mind a little company, Hilltop will leave you rested, rejuvenated, and ready for another week on the lakes. Who knows, you might even make some new friends!
And now you’re ready to relax like the locals! Pick your spot, head up for a soak, and don’t forget to bring a towel. We’ll see you in the hot springs!