Kelly Hot Spring
Kelly Hot Spring discharges at 198°F in northeastern California's remote volcanic terrain, standing 147°F above local average temperature and ranking among California's hottest natural springs. Located at 4,334 feet elevation near Alturas, it sits only 103 meters from the nearest road, offering exceptional access to superheated water.
Just 103 meters from the roadside, Kelly Hot Spring sits in open high desert landscape characterized by volcanic rock, low sagebrush, and sparse juniper. The surrounding terrain reflects harsh climate conditions—50 inches of snow fall annually despite a brief growing season. The spring's extreme temperature creates dramatic visual effects: visible steam plumes rise throughout the year, and ground around the discharge remains barren or sparsely vegetated due to constant heat stress. Nearby volcanic cinder cones and lava flows punctuate the landscape.
Access requires minimal effort: walk 103 meters from Modoc County road access. Water temperature presents extreme hazard—never immerse. Winters are severe with heavy snow; travel best October through May. The spring sits in sparsely developed country with services limited to Alturas and surrounding small towns. Multiple hot springs exist within driving distance of this location, allowing multiple site visits. Bring appropriate thermal clothing for sudden weather shifts at this elevation.
Kelly Hot Spring sits on the Modoc Plateau within one of California's most geothermally active regions. The exceptional temperature—198°F—indicates direct contact with shallow geothermal heat sources, likely related to the Medicine Lake volcanic field's ongoing thermal activity. This area preserves evidence of both ancient volcanism and contemporary geothermal processes, with numerous hot springs and geothermal features scattered throughout the plateau.
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Kelly Hot Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water is dangerously hot — bring water shoes and test pools carefully.
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