Pardon Warm Spring
Pardon Warm Spring flows at 76°F in Lake County's high desert, offering a moderate thermal experience at 4,173 feet elevation near Lakeview. Running 26 degrees above ambient air temperature, this roadside spring sits just 73 meters from the nearest road, providing easy access in Oregon's basin and range country where fault-block mountains alternate with broad valleys.
The spring emerges on the eastern flanks of the Winter Rim at 4,173 feet elevation, where the massive fault scarp rises abruptly from the valley floor. The landscape receives 14.5 inches of annual precipitation with 36 inches falling as snow, creating semi-arid conditions dominated by sagebrush, juniper, and bunchgrass. The Winter Rim stretches north-south, forming a dramatic boundary between higher forests to the west and lower desert basins to the east. Fault activity created the thermal pathway.
The spring's name likely derives from an early homesteader or rancher in Lake County, following the common pattern of settlers claiming land around reliable water sources in this arid region during the late 1800s. Lake County saw substantial ranching development following the Modoc War and establishment of Fort Bidwell. Specific documentation of Pardon Warm Spring's early history remains limited, though thermal features in this area supported year-round livestock operations.
Visit late spring through fall when access roads remain clear; winter snow closes higher elevation routes. The 73-meter roadside location makes this an easy stop while exploring the Winter Rim country. Fremont Point Cabin atop the rim, 7.6 kilometers distant, offers reservable lodging at 8,000+ feet with commanding views; access may require snowmobiles or foot travel in winter. The moderate temperature makes this spring more approachable than hotter features. Verify current access status and respect property boundaries.
Is Pardon Warm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Fremont Point Cabin is located on top of the Winter Rim in North Central Lake County, Oregon. The newly constructed cabin, which was completed in the summer of 2015, sits on the same footprint as its predecessor, which was destroyed during a forest fire in 2002. Through numerous donations of funding, materials, and volunteer labor, the cabin has been rebuilt and is now ready for you to enjoy. While the cabin is available year-round, off season access may be limited to foot or snowmob...