Fish Creek Hot Springs
Fish Creek Hot Springs, also called Iva Bell Hot Springs, emerges at 110°F deep in Sierra National Forest's backcountry at 7,240 feet elevation. This remote wilderness thermal feature rewards dedicated hikers with pristine surroundings and water 65.8°F warmer than the high-elevation air temperature.
A strenuous 4.5-mile hike from the nearest trailhead reaches this spring, passing through mixed conifer forests and alpine meadows. Winter snowfall exceeds 200 inches annually, burying the area from November through May. The water's chemistry shows low dissolved solids (378 mg/L TDS) and neutral pH of 6.7, typical of pristine Sierra thermal sources. Crystal-clear streams flow from the spring.
Access requires a challenging 4.5-mile hike on established trails; early summer through mid-fall offers the best conditions. Sherwin Creek Campground (13.2 km away) provides nearby camping with reservations available. The area falls within US Forest Service land with open public access; check local conditions before attempting the remote approach.
Fish Creek Hot Springs sits atop a fractured rock system in the Sierra Nevada batholith where heat from Earth's interior drives groundwater toward the surface. The area's geological history spans hundreds of millions of years of tectonic activity and granitic intrusion. Indigenous peoples and early explorers likely discovered this site, though documented history remains sparse.
The water at Fish Creek Hot Springs is slightly acidic (pH 6.7) with 378 mg/L total dissolved solids.
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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...
Fish Creek Hot Springs sits at 7,240 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 29% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Fish Creek Hot Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Springs Near Fish Creek Hot Springs
More Springs Around 110°F
Slightly Acidic Springs (pH ~6.7)
Hike 6 waterfalls near Fish Creek Hot Springs
Looking for more outdoor adventures? Explore waterfall hikes near Fish Creek Hot Springs, California.