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Written by Alex Close/Tahoe World
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Monday, 06 November 2006 |
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 Besides dramatic landscapes, majestic mountains and breathtaking scenery, the Eastern Sierra has another very peaceful and relaxing characteristic that can be enjoyed by those traveling through the range.
Geothermal activity.
For folks interested in the more recreational side of things, that geothermal activity translates to hot springs.
As water heated deep underground rises to the surface it provides natural hot tubs and streams. These can be dangerously hot and even deadly, but throughout the Eastern Sierra, many of these areas have been cultivated and manicured into very comfortable – both in seating and in temperature – little tubs or pools.
Many hot springs are not shared, and kept as secret as possible by those locals who like secluded bathing rather than public and often overcrowded areas.
Because of the nature of hot springing (often nude bathing) seclusion is something to be cherished, which means most of the best hot springs are off the beaten path and not marked.
The best option for those interested in experiencing a natural soak in a beautiful setting is to get a good guide book with maps and detailed directions.
But to get started, check out these two springs just south of Tahoe in the Eastern Sierra:
 Sheperd's hot spring
Shepherd’s is located off of Hwy. 395 between the junction for Mammoth and Bishop. This particular tub is located among a cluster of springs and geothermal activity, providing many options for bathers.
Going south on 395, continue on for about five miles passed the Mammoth Lakes junction. Continue just passed the airport and go left on Owens River Road at the green church. Just over a mile take the first dirt road on the left, 2SO7. Stay on the road for almost two miles and turn right on the dirt road just before you see a lone pine tree on the right. At the end of the road you will find a small man made tub fed by PVC allowing temperature control. Four people can fit in this tub very comfortably and camping is allowed on BLM land just west of the tub.
Buckeye hot spring
This is not the most secluded pool, but it is very peaceful if caught at the right time. Located at the bottom of a steep bank just next to a stream. Rock dams make three pools with variable temperatures.
Located five miles west of Bridgeport. Take Twin Lakes road west out of Bridgeport seven miles to Doc and Al’s campground. Turn right there and follow the dirt road about four miles toward Buckeye Campground. After a one lane bridge and a road fork, take the next right at the second fork. Follow that for almost half a mile and park in the area right of the road. Follow the steep trail down to the creek and the springs.
 Hot springing musts:
Depending on your level of modesty, bathing suits may or may not be necessary. Bathing nude is perfectly acceptable in remote and non-paying springs. So bring an open mind and a towel.
Many springs are located remotely and camping near them can be very lovely, so bring proper overnight gear if you fancy a soak, sleep and then a morning soak.
Camping near hot springs can be a very nice way to break up a long drive south. Driving from Tahoe to Las Vegas, for example, can be done by driving three or four hours to a nice spring, soaking, passing out, waking up to the early morning light on the dramatic south eastern Sierra and soaking before hitting the road again.
Also make sure to bring a warming beverage – hot cider in a thermos, some rum, whatever.
– The Third Revised Edition of “Hot Springs of the Eastern Sierra” by George Williams III was used as a source for this article.
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Last Updated ( Monday, 06 November 2006 )
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