Fumarole — Not a Soaking Spring
Hot Spring, Fumaroles is a fumarole, not a traditional hot spring. These geothermal features can be extremely dangerous — boiling water, toxic gases, and unstable ground are common hazards. Do not attempt to soak.
File:Forest Supervisor Rachel Birkey is triumphant on the top of Mount Shasta (USDA Forest Service photo by Nick Meyers) (20220626-FS-NM-012).jpg — public domain
Hot Spring with fumaroles on Mount Shasta at 14,000 feet elevation represents one of California's highest thermal features, with steam and 183°F water creating a dramatic manifestation of the volcano's ongoing geothermal activity.
Known locally as Sulphur Springs, this high-altitude site requires a serious 3.15-mile mountaineering approach through terrain that remains snow-covered most of the year. Fumaroles (steam vents) punctuate the landscape around the main spring, creating an otherworldly sensory experience of heat rising from volcanic rock.
History of Hot Spring, Fumaroles
Mount Shasta's thermal features reflect the volcano's youth—it remains geothermally active despite being a non-erupting stratovolcano. These high-altitude springs are fed by deep geothermal circulation beneath the volcano's cone, where hot rock and groundwater interact.
Access requires mountaineering skill and experience with high-elevation terrain. Snowpack persists until mid to late summer; expect snow through June and again by September. Only experienced hikers should attempt this route. Steam and fumarole gases require caution when approaching vents.
Is Hot Spring, Fumaroles worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Hot Spring, Fumaroles is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 48.7 in
Annual Snow: 208.4 in
December
Air 2°F · Water 183°F · +181° contrast
January
Air 3°F · Water 183°F · +180° contrast
February
Air 3°F · Water 183°F · +180° contrast
December offers 36°F more contrast than August
Overview
Red Fir Flat Group Campground is located on the southern slope of Mt. Shasta at 6,400 feet in elevation. Snowpack in this location may extend into late June on heavy snow years, and usually sees late season snowfall in early November, possibly October. It is a popular site for meditation/retreat groups. Maximum stay limit is 7 days per group and or indvidual(s)
Recreation
Most visitors enjoy the peace and solitude of the forest setting. Several hiking trails are located nearby, incl...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Red Fir Flat Group Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Mount Shasta, CA
USGS Quad: SHASTA 15 · PP 492: 3.0 · NOAA: 3.0 · AMS Map: WEED
What is the water temperature at Hot Spring, Fumaroles?
Hot Spring, Fumaroles has a water temperature of 183°F (84°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Spring, Fumaroles located?
Hot Spring, Fumaroles is located in Siskiyou County, California at 14,000 feet elevation, near Mount Shasta. Coordinates: 41.4070°N, 122.1970°W.
How do I get to Hot Spring, Fumaroles?
Hot Spring, Fumaroles has Hike road access (3.1 mi from the road).
Is Hot Spring, Fumaroles free to visit?
Hot Spring, Fumaroles has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Hot Spring, Fumaroles?
Yes, Red Fir Flat Group Campground is located nearby (5.2 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Spring, Fumaroles?
The water at Hot Spring, Fumaroles reaches 183°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. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hot Spring, Fumaroles crowded?
Hot Spring, Fumaroles sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Spring, Fumaroles?
Essentials for Hot Spring, Fumaroles: 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.