Mclear Warm Springs
McLear Warm Springs flows at 86°F in the high Sierra Nevada near Portola, generating a remarkable 36.5-degree temperature rise above the 49.5°F average air temperature. This substantial differential makes the spring dramatically warm relative to its alpine environment, creating a genuine geothermal feature despite modest absolute temperature.
The spring emerges at 4,609 feet elevation in dense coniferous forest—white fir, incense cedar, and ponderosa pine surround the spring with a thick canopy overhead. A short 187-foot walk from the road leads to this sheltered thermal feature, where warm mineral water collects in natural pools amid the cool mountain streams and rocky terrain typical of the northern Sierra.
This high-elevation spring sits where Sierra Nevada basement rocks transition northward toward Cascade volcanic terrain. The 36.5-degree temperature differential despite relatively cool absolute temperature indicates robust geothermal circulation in the subsurface. The spring's accessibility and thermal output made it historically popular with local visitors.
The short 187-foot approach makes this ideal for visitors seeking high-elevation geothermal features without serious backcountry effort. Winter snows (143 inches annually) close road access November through May; visit June through October when roads are clear. The spring is undeveloped; plan an hour for the short walk and soaking time.
Is Mclear Warm Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
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