Little Hot Creek Spring
Little Hot Creek Spring discharges at 180°F with alkaline chemistry (pH 7.8) and moderate mineral content dominated by sodium chloride in the Sierra Nevada high country. Sitting at 7,035 feet in the Inyo National Forest near Mammoth Lakes, this superheated spring rises 135 degrees above ambient in a snow-heavy climate.
A short walk from Antelope Springs Road crosses montane meadows and mixed conifer forest to reach Little Hot Creek at nearly 7,000 feet elevation. Clear, extremely hot water emerges from granitic bedrock and flows into a small pool surrounded by whitebark pine and wildflowers in season. The stream drops sharply downslope through rocky terrain beneath towering Sierra peaks visible across the Long Valley Caldera.
This backcountry spring requires a short hike from Antelope Springs Road. The harsh alpine environment—78.8 inches of annual snow and 45°F average air temperature—makes summer (July-September) the practical visit window. Water is extremely hot; never submerge unaccustomed skin directly. The remote setting demands proper wilderness preparation and respect for the powerful thermal feature."
Little Hot Creek Spring (also called Little Creek Hot Springs) flows from geothermally heated groundwater circulating deep beneath the Long Valley Caldera, a massive volcanic depression formed 700,000 years ago. The water's alkaline signature and sodium-chloride composition reflect heating in volcanic rocks. USGS measurements confirm 82.7°C (181°F) discharge temperature.
The water at Little Hot Creek Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.8) with 1230 mg/L total dissolved solids. It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits), and total dissolved solids (higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking).
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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...
Little Hot Creek Spring sits at 7,035 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 28% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Little Hot Creek 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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Springs Near Little Hot Creek Spring
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Slightly Alkaline Springs (pH ~7.8)
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