At 180°F, the source water at Little Hot Creek Spring 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.
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Little Hot Creek Spring discharges at 180°F with alkaline chemistry (pH 7.8) and moderate mineral content dominated by sodium chloride in the Sierra Nevada high country. Sitting at 7,035 feet in the Inyo National Forest near Mammoth Lakes, this superheated spring rises 135 degrees above ambient in a snow-heavy climate.
A short walk from Antelope Springs Road crosses montane meadows and mixed conifer forest to reach Little Hot Creek at nearly 7,000 feet elevation. Clear, extremely hot water emerges from granitic bedrock and flows into a small pool surrounded by whitebark pine and wildflowers in season. The stream drops sharply downslope through rocky terrain beneath towering Sierra peaks visible across the Long Valley Caldera.
History of Little Hot Creek Spring
Little Hot Creek Spring (also called Little Creek Hot Springs) flows from geothermally heated groundwater circulating deep beneath the Long Valley Caldera, a massive volcanic depression formed 700,000 years ago. The water's alkaline signature and sodium-chloride composition reflect heating in volcanic rocks. USGS measurements confirm 82.7°C (181°F) discharge temperature.
This backcountry spring requires a short hike from Antelope Springs Road. The harsh alpine environment—78.8 inches of annual snow and 45°F average air temperature—makes summer (July-September) the practical visit window. Water is extremely hot; never submerge unaccustomed skin directly. The remote setting demands proper wilderness preparation and respect for the powerful thermal feature."
Is Little Hot Creek Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Mineral-rich therapeutic bathing
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Little Hot Creek Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
29°Jan
28°Feb
33°Mar
40°Apr
47°May
60°Jun
67°Jul
66°Aug
60°Sep
49°Oct
37°Nov
27°Dec
Annual Precip: 15.9 inAnnual Snow: 78.8 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 27°F · Water 180°F · +153° contrast
FebruaryAir 28°F · Water 180°F · +152° contrast
JanuaryAir 29°F · Water 180°F · +151° contrast
December offers 40°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
180.9°F
(82.7°C)Measured Jul 15, 1993
Water ChemistrySampled 1993-07-15
The water at Little Hot Creek Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.8) with 1230 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits), and total dissolved solids (higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking).
Overview
Sherwin Creek Campground is located in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains within 2 miles of the full-service community of Mammoth Lakes, California. Popular among anglers, hikers, off-road vehicle enthusiasts and photographers, the campground is near some of the most spectacular wilderness and outdoor recreation areas in the Sierras.Recreation
With a motocross track and trails, Sherwin Creek is a hot spot for off-road vehicle enthusiasts. The area's majestic scenery and challenging...
What is the water temperature at Little Hot Creek Spring?
Little Hot Creek Spring has a water temperature of 180°F (82°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Little Hot Creek Spring located?
Little Hot Creek Spring is located in Mono County, California at 7,035 feet elevation, near Mammoth Lakes. Coordinates: 37.6920°N, 118.8390°W.
How do I get to Little Hot Creek Spring?
Little Hot Creek Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Antelope Springs Road (0.6 mi from the road).
Is Little Hot Creek Spring free to visit?
Little Hot Creek Spring has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Little Hot Creek Spring?
Yes, Sherwin Creek is located nearby (7.0 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Little Hot Creek Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.8 (slightly alkaline). Total dissolved solids measure 1,230 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Little Hot Creek Spring?
The water at Little Hot Creek Spring 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. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Little Hot Creek Spring crowded?
Little Hot Creek Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Little Hot Creek Spring?
Essentials for Little Hot Creek Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, 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.
Temperature
180°F
WarmHotBoiling
Water Temp180°F (82°C)
Avg Air Temp45°F
Above Ambient+135°F
Perfect soaking weatherMarch
Access
Open
Road AccessShort Walk
Nearest RoadAntelope Springs Road
Distance to Road0.6 mi
Bath TypeHot spring
Land
OwnershipFederal
AgencyUS Forest Service
DesignationNational Forest
UnitInyo National Forest
ManagerUS Forest Service
Protection3 - Protected, subject to extractive use
