Hot Spring, Fumaroles
Hot Spring with fumaroles on Mount Shasta at 14,000 feet elevation represents one of California's highest thermal features, with steam and 183°F water creating a dramatic manifestation of the volcano's ongoing geothermal activity.
Known locally as Sulphur Springs, this high-altitude site requires a serious 3.15-mile mountaineering approach through terrain that remains snow-covered most of the year. Fumaroles (steam vents) punctuate the landscape around the main spring, creating an otherworldly sensory experience of heat rising from volcanic rock.
Mount Shasta's thermal features reflect the volcano's youth—it remains geothermally active despite being a non-erupting stratovolcano. These high-altitude springs are fed by deep geothermal circulation beneath the volcano's cone, where hot rock and groundwater interact.
Access requires mountaineering skill and experience with high-elevation terrain. Snowpack persists until mid to late summer; expect snow through June and again by September. Only experienced hikers should attempt this route. Steam and fumarole gases require caution when approaching vents.
Is Hot Spring, Fumaroles worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
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Overview Red Fir Flat Group Campground is located on the southern slope of Mt. Shasta at 6,400 feet in elevation. Snowpack in this location may extend into late June on heavy snow years, and usually sees late season snowfall in early November, possibly October. It is a popular site for meditation/retreat groups. Maximum stay limit is 7 days per group and or indvidual(s) Recreation Most visitors enjoy the peace and solitude of the forest setting. Several hiking trails are located nearby, incl...