Reds Meadow Hot Springs
Reds Meadow Hot Springs flows at an impressive 115°F high in the Eastern Sierra at 7,638 feet elevation, delivering water 72 degrees warmer than the frigid mountain air where annual temperatures average just 43°F.
Standing virtually roadside in spectacular alpine terrain, the spring sits within the Inyo National Forest where dramatic granite peaks and subalpine meadows surround the thermal waters. The setting combines geothermal heat with a cold mountain environment receiving over 200 inches of snow annually. Mineral-rich waters (pH 6.7, 642 mg/L total dissolved solids) emerge from the earth into the high-elevation landscape near Mammoth Lakes.
This roadside spring requires only an 85-meter walk from the nearest road, making it highly accessible despite remote mountain location. Best visits occur late spring through early fall when snow melts and access is easiest. Annual precipitation averages 33 inches with extreme winter snowfall of 203 inches. The site sits on protected Forest Service land allowing recreational use.
Reds Meadow Hot Springs represents one of California's more accessible high-alpine thermal features, lying on US Forest Service land with open public access. The geothermal activity reflects deeper crustal heat sources common throughout the Sierra Nevada mountains. Historical use includes recreation, with the spring positioned near popular hiking and wilderness routes.
The water at Reds Meadow Hot Springs is slightly acidic (pH 6.7) with 642 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Overview Pumice Flat Group Camp is located in the Red's Meadows and Devils Postpile section of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, just west of the full-service community of Mammoth Lakes, California. This group camping facility provides access to some of the most spectacular wilderness in the Sierras and many outdoor activities such as horseback riding, fishing, hiking, photography and geologic study of the dramatic landscape. Devils Postpile National Monument and the famous Ansel Adams Wi...
Reds Meadow Hot Springs sits at 7,638 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 31% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Reds Meadow Hot Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water runs hot, so extra hydration is key. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
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Springs Near Reds Meadow Hot Springs
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Slightly Acidic Springs (pH ~6.7)
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