At 180°F, the source water at Fales Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
File:M 3811945 ne 11 060 20220819.tif — public domain
Fales Hot Springs reaches 180°F in the high Sierra Nevada, flowing 137°F hotter than the surrounding air at 7,491 feet elevation. This powerfully thermal system sits on private property and remains closed to the public, though its intensity exemplifies the geothermal vigor of eastern California's volcanic region.
The spring occupies high-elevation terrain in Mono County near Sonora Junction, where winter snow accumulates to 139 inches annually and average air temperatures hover around 43°F year-round. Rugged Sierra landscape surrounds the site: dense forests of pine and fir, cold streams, and dramatic elevation changes. The private residence nearby restricts casual visitor access.
History of Fales Hot Springs
Fales Hot Springs formed through deep geothermal circulation within fractured bedrock of the Sierra Nevada batholith, where crustal heat sources drive groundwater to the surface. The unusual combination of extremely high temperature and private ownership reflects both the geological richness and land tenure patterns of eastern California's backcountry.
The spring sits on private property and is explicitly not open to public visitation. Nearby Obsidian Campground (6.9 km away) offers a base for exploring surrounding wilderness trails and the Little Walker River area. Visitors should respect private land boundaries and seek public alternative thermal springs in the region.
Is Fales Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Fales Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
29°Jan
27°Feb
31°Mar
36°Apr
44°May
57°Jun
65°Jul
64°Aug
57°Sep
46°Oct
35°Nov
25°Dec
Annual Precip: 24.5 inAnnual Snow: 138.9 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 25°F · Water 180°F · +155° contrast
FebruaryAir 27°F · Water 180°F · +153° contrast
JanuaryAir 29°F · Water 180°F · +152° contrast
December offers 40°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Obsidian Campground4.3 mi away
Obsidian Campground offers opportunity to get away from crowds amidst shade of aspens and pines. Campground is close to Molybdenite Creek and Little Walker River. The river is stocked with trout. Area trailheads offer several interesting hikes. The trail from Molybdenite Creek trailhead splits, with one branch heading south into the Hoover Wilderness, and one looping north along Wheeler Creek to connect with the trail along the Little Walker River. This can be hiked as a loop from Burt Canyon...
What is the water temperature at Fales Hot Springs?
Fales Hot Springs has a water temperature of 180°F (82°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Fales Hot Springs located?
Fales Hot Springs is located in Mono County, California at 7,491 feet elevation, near Bridgeport. Coordinates: 38.3480°N, 119.4000°W.
How do I get to Fales Hot Springs?
Fales Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.2 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Fales Hot Springs?
Yes, Obsidian Campground is located nearby (4.3 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Fales Hot Springs?
The water at Fales Hot Springs reaches 180°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Fales Hot Springs crowded?
Fales Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Fales Hot Springs?
Essentials for Fales Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.