Lower Warm Springs
Lower Warm Springs discharges at 110°F in Death Valley National Park, accessible only via a challenging 5.9-mile backcountry route into remote Saline Valley. Also called Sunrise Pool on maps, this spring sits in one of the most isolated thermal areas in the continental United States, under permanent National Park Service protection.
A remote 5.9-mile backcountry hike descends over 9,500 meters of vertical terrain to reach Lower Warm Springs at 1,407 feet elevation in Saline Valley. Clear, moderately hot water emerges in a remote desert oasis surrounded by alluvial fans and sparse vegetation adapted to extreme aridity. The setting evokes a true sense of wilderness isolation rarely found in the lower 48 states.
Lower Warm Springs, part of Saline Valley Hot Springs, flows from geothermal circulation beneath Death Valley National Park. The 110°F discharge and 37-degree elevation above ambient (73°F) in this desert landscape reflect deep groundwater heating in the Panamint Range's fractured basement rocks. The remote Saline Valley area sees minimal human visitation due to its harsh access requirements.
Access requires a serious backcountry expedition involving significant wilderness travel across Death Valley National Park terrain. Park regulations and permit requirements apply. Water sources are critical planning concerns. This destination suits only experienced desert travelers prepared for extreme isolation and self-sufficiency. The reward is one of California's most remote thermal features in pristine wilderness."
Is Lower Warm Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Backpacking adventures
Not ideal for
- Day trips with young children