Alameda Warm Springs

Santa Clara County County, California · Near Milpitas
37.5030°N, 121.9040°W · 465 ft
80°F 465 ft Open Short Walk CITY
Alameda Warm Springs
File:ISS016-E-22035 - View of Earth.jpg — public domain

Alameda Warm Springs flows at 80°F (27°C) in Mission Peak Regional Preserve near Milpitas, a modest thermal seep just 20 degrees above the Bay Area's cool annual air temperature.

The spring emerges at low elevation (465 feet) within grassland and oak woodlands overlooking the Santa Clara Valley. The modest discharge forms small pools in a short-walk setting, where bay breezes moderate the climate year-round. Views extend toward distant ridge lines as you approach the spring.

History of Alameda Warm Springs

Alameda sits at the intersection of regional geology where deeper thermal reservoirs supply weak thermal signals across the Bay Area. The spring has long been known locally but remains largely overshadowed by more prominent thermal features in Northern California.

This is one of the easiest Bay Area warm springs to visit, reachable via short walk through Mission Peak Regional Preserve. Spring and fall are ideal visiting seasons. The spring is open to public access; observe all posted regulations and trail rules of the preserve.

Is Alameda Warm Springs worth visiting?

Best for

  • Warm-water soaking
Alameda Warm Springs is well suited for warm-water soaking.
Monthly Climate
50°
Jan
52°
Feb
54°
Mar
57°
Apr
60°
May
67°
Jun
70°
Jul
70°
Aug
69°
Sep
65°
Oct
56°
Nov
50°
Dec
Annual Precip: 19.8 in Annual Snow: 0.1 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 50°F · Water 80°F · +30° contrast
December Air 50°F · Water 80°F · +30° contrast
February Air 52°F · Water 80°F · +28° contrast
January offers 20°F more contrast than August
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
References
USGS Quad: NILES 7.5 · PP 492: 87.0 · NOAA: 6.0 · AMS Map: SAN JOSE
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Alameda Warm Springs?
Alameda Warm Springs has a water temperature of 80°F (27°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Alameda Warm Springs located?
Alameda Warm Springs is located in Santa Clara County, California at 465 feet elevation, near Milpitas. Coordinates: 37.5030°N, 121.9040°W.
How do I get to Alameda Warm Springs?
Alameda Warm Springs has Short Walk road access (439 ft from the road).
Is Alameda Warm Springs free to visit?
Alameda Warm Springs has Open access. It is managed by CITY.
Is it safe to soak at Alameda Warm Springs?
Alameda Warm Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Alameda Warm Springs crowded?
Alameda Warm Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Alameda Warm Springs?
Essentials for Alameda Warm Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Temperature
80°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 80°F (27°C)
Avg Air Temp 60°F
Above Ambient +20°F
Mild soaking conditions March
Access
Open
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 439 ft
Land
Ownership Local
Agency CITY
Designation LCA
Unit Mission Peak Regional Preserve
Manager REG
Protection 2 - Permanent protection, some use allowed