Hot Creek Geological Site

Hot Creek Geological Site is a must see when you are in the Mammoth Lakes area. It is just West of Highway 395 and only minutes form the town of Mammoth Lakes, which has great food, a ski resort, world class mountain biking, and a brewery. Bishop is about 40 minutes South which is well known for its world class climbing and bouldering along with the great fishing.

Hot Creek runs a good length from the 395 until it runs into the Owens River. The actual marked Geological Site is a site to see. From boiling water, winding canyons, and teal water, it is always a spot to have your camera. The area near the parking lot is usually a bit hot to swim and you will be warned by many signs and fences that were placed after a few injuries. Here is where you just want to look and take pictures, but when you are ready, you can move down river a bit and the water temperatures will be a bit cooler for a nice warm water wade. While driving to the location, you will notice a fish hatchery to the North. The fishing is great here! As mentioned above, almost all of this area is BLM land which means you are welcome to camp anywhere you'd like. The sunsets are killer and the sunrises are always fantastic.

This area is littered with natural hot springs if you are looking for the tub setting compared to the river.

THINGS TO KNOW:

• The area is frequently traveled
• The river does have some extremely hot areas!
• Some areas along the river can require a vehicle with ground clearance
• Phone signal is not always available in the area
• Bathrooms are open year round at the Geological Site
• Family friendly (occasional nudity in hot springs)
• Fish are catch and release out of season