Growler Hot Spring
Growler Hot Spring discharges at a spectacular 203 degrees Fahrenheit, the highest temperature in this survey and reflecting extraordinary geothermal power from deep crustal sources.
Tucked at 5,106 feet elevation in Plumas County's northern Sierra Nevada, the spring sits approximately 110 yards from the nearest road in dense forest of ponderosa pine, sugar pine, incense cedar, and fir. The short walk leads through lush forest canopy receiving 47 inches of annual precipitation and 179 inches of snow, creating a landscape where thermal activity provides dramatic contrast to surrounding cool, wet conditions.
Growler Hot Spring represents the apex of California's continental geothermal gradient, with a 154-degree temperature differential indicating massive heat flux from below and minimal surface water mixing. The feature's extreme temperature reflects proximity to viable heat sources at moderate depth, unusual for the northern Sierra region where most springs operate at lower temperatures.
Short forest walk from parking area; high temperature means extreme caution near the spring itself. Accessible summer through early fall via Highway 89 near Chester; winter access is unreliable. The nearby Hole-in-the-Ground Campground provides basic facilities for exploring this and other northern Sierra thermal features.
Is Growler Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Swimming or soaking
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True to its name, Hole-in-the-Ground is tucked away in a steep, tree-covered draw alongside Mill Creek. A developed campground with 13 designated sites, there is a maximum of 8 people per site at this campground. Grills and tables are provided.