Unnamed Thermal Spring
This 84-degree thermal spring near Big Pine sits at 4,034 feet in remote Inyo County backcountry, requiring a 1.7-kilometer hike from the road across arid high desert terrain. The isolation and effort create an experience distinct from roadside thermal springs, rewarding hikers with solitude and wild landscape.
The spring emerges in shadeless high desert scrubland where Joshua trees, yucca, and creosote bush dominate the sparse vegetation. The thermal water rises amid fragmented bedrock in terrain that receives minimal precipitation, creating stark contrasts between warm thermal pools and the harsh, dry surrounding environment.
Access requires a 1.7-kilometer (1-mile) walk from the nearest road through unshaded high desert terrain, so bring plenty of water and start in early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense midday heat. The remote location means self-sufficiency is essential—no facilities exist at the spring. Autumn through spring offer the most pleasant air temperatures.
The spring flows on Bureau of Land Management public lands designated for multiple uses under the Bishop Field Office, where geothermal resources remain relatively undisturbed. The water's heat traces to deeper crustal sources along the Owens Valley's complex fault system, where ongoing extension maintains the geothermal gradient required for thermal springs.
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Overview Cedar Flat Group sites are popular with academic institutions for geology field trips. With no nearby light sources, the night sky is brilliant for star gazing and night photography.Recreation A perfect location for star gazing, geology and hiking.Facilities Three large group camp sites can accommodate between 25 and 50 people. Each has a picnic shelter with table, campfire ring and vault toilet. There is no water at this location nor is there a natural water source. The nearest sour...
this spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear.
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