Hilltop Hot Springs is a hidden gem located in California’s Eastern Sierra mountains. It offers a peaceful escape near Mammoth Lakes, where visitors can unwind in natural hot springs while enjoying stunning mountain views.
Soak in Nature’s Beauty
At Hilltop Hot Springs, you can immerse yourself in mineral-rich waters and take in the breathtaking scenery of Long Valley Caldera. This area was shaped by ancient volcanic activity, which created these therapeutic hot springs. The natural pool here strikes a perfect balance between comfort and being one with nature.
An Authentic Wilderness Experience Hilltop Hot Springs
What makes Hilltop Hot Springs special is its combination of accessibility and genuine wilderness adventure. While soaking, nature enthusiasts can spot local wildlife such as soaring hawks and curious marmots. For those seeking thrills, this location serves as an ideal pit stop after hiking, skiing, or mountain biking in the nearby landscape.
Unforgettable Views and Relaxation
Situated at a higher elevation, the spring provides unobstructed vistas of the Sierra Nevada mountains—an atmosphere perfect for meditation. As day turns into night, witness the mountains bathe in golden hues while the warm waters soothe your weary muscles.
Hilltop Hot Springs proves that sometimes the most extraordinary experiences come from simple pleasures—just you, healing waters, and nature’s magnificence stretching endlessly before you.
Location and How to Get There
Hilltop Hot Springs is located about 8 miles east of Mammoth Lakes and 30 miles north of Bishop, California. This hidden gem is tucked away in the Long Valley Caldera, making it both accessible and naturally secluded.
Driving Directions:
- From Mammoth Lakes: Head east on US-395 S for about 3 miles
- Turn left onto Benton Crossing Road (look for the green church)
- Drive approximately 3.5 miles until you spot a small dirt parking area on your right
- GPS coordinates: 37.6636° N, 118.8211° W
From Bishop:
- Take US-395 N for roughly 30 miles
- Turn right onto Benton Crossing Road
- Continue for 3.5 miles to the dirt parking area
The parking lot can comfortably accommodate 8-10 vehicles on a gravel surface. A wooden post marks the beginning of the trail, making it easy to find even for first-time visitors.
From the parking area, a well-defined path leads to the springs. The trail is 0.25 miles long and consists of packed gravel and wooden planks, making it an easy walk suitable for most fitness levels. As you walk, you’ll pass through sagebrush and native grasses, with occasional glimpses of the steaming pool ahead.
During peak seasons, it’s best to arrive early to secure parking as spaces fill up quickly. The lot is open 24/7, allowing visitors to enjoy both sunrise and sunset soaks.
What to Expect at Hilltop Hot Springs
Hilltop Hot Springs is nestled in the breathtaking Eastern Sierra landscape. It features a circular concrete pool, approximately 12 feet wide, that is man-made and holds natural hot water sourced from a nearby creek. This setup allows for a comfortable soak for about 4-6 people.
Soaking Experience
The water temperature in the spring remains consistently between 100-110°F (38-43°C), which is perfect for relaxing muscles and relieving stress. A simple pipe system lets visitors control the water flow, enabling them to adjust the temperature according to their personal preference.
Breathtaking Views
While soaking in the pool, you can enjoy stunning views all around:
- Snow-capped Sierra Nevada peaks to the west
- Long Valley’s expansive meadows dotted with sage brush
- Glass Mountain’s distinctive silhouette to the east
- Crowley Lake shimmering in the distance
Altitude Considerations
The pool is situated at an elevation of 6,890 feet, which may impact some visitors due to the thin mountain air. For more information on how high altitude can affect your body, check out this guide on altitude considerations. Common symptoms related to altitude include:
- Shortness of breath during the short walk to the springs
- Increased risk of dehydration while soaking
- Heightened sensitivity to sun exposure
Sunrise and Sunset Delights
The pool’s location on a small hill offers an elevated viewpoint, making it an ideal spot for witnessing the alpenglow paint the surrounding peaks during sunrise and sunset. A wooden deck encircles the pool, providing space for your belongings and a cozy area to dry off after your soak.
Best Time to Visit Hilltop Hot Springs
The Eastern Sierra mountains create distinct seasonal experiences at Hilltop Hot Springs. Spring and fall offer ideal soaking conditions with mild temperatures and manageable crowds. April through June brings wildflower blooms across the surrounding meadows, while September and October paint the landscape in golden autumn hues.
Summer Days
Summer days (June-August) can be quite warm, making early morning or evening visits most enjoyable. The extended daylight hours allow for magical sunset soaks starting around 7:30-8:30 PM. These golden hour dips provide stunning photo opportunities as the sun paints the Sierra peaks in vibrant oranges and pinks.
Winter Visits
Winter visits require careful planning:
- Snow often covers access roads December through March
- 4×4 vehicles with chains recommended
- Shorter daylight hours limit soaking time
- Temperature drops below freezing after dark
Night Soaking
Night soaking creates unforgettable experiences year-round. The remote location offers pristine dark skies perfect for stargazing. Summer’s Milky Way stretches across the horizon from July through September, while winter nights showcase crystal-clear constellations despite the cold.
The springs maintain their welcoming 100-110°F temperature regardless of season, creating a warm sanctuary even on chilly days. Peak visiting hours typically run 10 AM – 4 PM, so planning outside these times ensures a more private experience.
Preparing for Your Visit – What to Pack and Bring Along
A successful trip to Hilltop Hot Springs requires thoughtful preparation. Here’s your essential packing list for a safe and enjoyable experience:
Must-Have Items:
- Water (1 gallon per person minimum)
- Quick-dry towels
- Swimsuit or appropriate bathing attire
- Sturdy water shoes or hiking sandals
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- First aid kit
- Waterproof bag for electronics
Weather-Dependent Gear:
- Light jacket or warm layer
- Rain protection during wet seasons
- Headlamp or flashlight for night visits
- Insulated water bottle
Leave No Trace Essentials:
- Reusable trash bag
- Eco-friendly snack containers
- Biodegradable toilet paper
- Sealable bags for personal items
These Leave No Trace principles are crucial in preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Items to Avoid:
- Glass containers of any kind
- Soaps or bath products
- Alcoholic beverages
- Single-use plastics
- Electronic speakers
Pack light but smart – the short trail to the springs can be slippery when wet. Keep your belongings organized in a waterproof backpack that’s easy to carry. Remember to dispose of waste properly as part of the Leave No Trace principle: pack out everything you pack in, helping preserve this natural treasure for future visitors. For more tips on outdoor packing, you might find this Peru packing list useful as it includes similar essentials that can be applied to your trip.
Hot Springs Soaking Tips and Safety Guidelines
Soaking in natural hot springs requires mindful attention to safety and etiquette. Here’s your guide to a safe, enjoyable experience at Hilltop Hot Springs:
Safe Soaking Practices
- Limit soaking sessions to 15-20 minutes at a time
- Test water temperature with your hand before entering
- Exit immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or lightheaded
- Stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after soaking
- Take regular cooling breaks in between sessions
Essential Etiquette
- Keep noise levels low – whisper or speak softly
- Give other soakers personal space
- Wait your turn if the pool is full
- Avoid smoking near the springs
- Keep photography minimal and ask permission if others are present
Protecting the Springs
- Never use soaps, shampoos, or lotions in the water
- Skip the hot springs if you have open wounds or infections
- Remove all jewelry before entering (minerals can damage metal)
- Avoid alcohol before and during soaking
- Don’t adjust or tamper with the spring’s natural flow
Remember to check the water temperature before entering – if it feels uncomfortably hot, wait for it to cool or find a cooler spot in the pool. Natural hot springs can fluctuate in temperature throughout the day.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodation Hilltop Hot Springs
The Eastern Sierra region offers diverse lodging choices to complement your Hilltop Hot Springs experience. The Village Lodge in Mammoth Lakes stands as a premier accommodation option, featuring luxury condos with full kitchens, heated pools, and spa facilities. For a rustic mountain retreat, Tamarack Lodge delivers charm with its historic cabins nestled along Twin Lakes.
Additional Lodging Options:
- Mammoth Mountain Inn – ski-in/ski-out access
- Juniper Springs Resort – spacious suites with mountain views
- Sierra Nevada Resort & Spa – boutique hotel experience
- Camp High Sierra – seasonal camping facilities
The area surrounding Hilltop Hot Springs brims with natural wonders. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs sits just minutes away, offering another peaceful soaking spot with stunning valley views. Rock Creek Hot Springs provides a more secluded experience, tucked away in a scenic canyon setting.
Notable Nearby Hot Springs:
- Shepherd Hot Springs – intimate pool with mountain backdrop
- Whitmore Hot Springs – family-friendly concrete pools
- Little Hot Creek – primitive natural springs
- Benton Hot Springs – private tubs with camping options
The Mammoth Lakes area also features world-class skiing, hiking trails, and fishing spots. Hot Creek Geological Site showcases dramatic geothermal activity, while Devils Postpile National Monument displays unique basalt columns formed by ancient lava flows.
Personal Experiences and Reviews of Hilltop Hot Springs
The magic of Hilltop Hot Springs lives in the stories of those who’ve experienced its healing waters. A recent visitor, Sarah M., describes her dawn soak: “The sun rose over the Sierra peaks, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks. Steam rising from the pool created an ethereal atmosphere I’ll never forget.“
Many visitors praise the intimate size of the spring, which typically accommodates 4-6 people comfortably. The natural rock formations create perfect backrests, allowing for extended relaxation sessions while taking in the panoramic views.
Nighttime brings a different kind of enchantment to Hilltop Hot Springs. Local photographer James Chen shares: “I’ve captured the Milky Way from many locations, but watching it reflect off the still waters of Hilltop while soaking at midnight was otherworldly. The complete silence, broken only by distant coyote calls, created a profound connection with nature.“
Regular visitors recommend arriving just before sunset:
- The crowds thin out
- The water temperature feels perfect against the cooling air
- The alpenglow on the surrounding peaks creates stunning photo opportunities
- Wildlife activity increases, with deer often spotted in nearby meadows
The spring’s consistent 104°F temperature draws praise from winter visitors who brave the snow for a therapeutic soak. “Watching snowflakes dissolve into steam while staying perfectly warm in the pool feels like pure magic,” notes winter enthusiast Mike R.
For those seeking a similar experience in a different setting, exploring places like Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska can offer unique natural beauty and tranquility.
Conclusion
Hilltop Hot Springs is a hidden gem in California’s Eastern Sierra mountains. It offers a unique combination of natural healing and breathtaking scenery. The therapeutic waters, located at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet, provide a peaceful retreat where visitors can escape from everyday stresses while enjoying sweeping views of the mountains.
This natural hot spring offers an experience that is:
- Convenient – Just a short walk from parking
- Genuine – Untouched geothermal waters in a natural environment
- Budget-friendly – Free public access to nature’s spa
- Breathtaking – Panoramic views of Sierra peaks and valleys
The beauty of Hilltop Hot Springs lies in its simplicity. Here, nature creates the perfect conditions for deep relaxation – warm mineral waters, fresh mountain air, and expansive open spaces combine to create an atmosphere where healing occurs naturally.
When visiting these healing waters, it’s important to approach the experience with mindfulness. Pack carefully, be respectful of the land, and share the space with other visitors. By taking care of this natural wonder, we can ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to enjoy the same tranquil moments under starry skies or vibrant sunsets.
Let Hilltop Hot Springs be your getaway into nature’s embrace – where time slows down, worries fade away, and the simple act of soaking becomes a meaningful connection with the untamed beauty of the Eastern Sierra.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions Hilltop Hot Springs)
Where is Hilltop Hot Springs located and how can I get there?
Hilltop Hot Springs is a serene natural hot spring situated near Mammoth Lakes, California, within the scenic Eastern Sierra mountains and Long Valley Caldera. To reach the springs, take US-395 and exit onto Benton Crossing Rd. There is parking available nearby, followed by a short 0.25-mile hike on gravel and wooden plank trails leading to the hot springs.
What can I expect when visiting Hilltop Hot Springs?
Visitors will find a man-made pool structure fed by geothermal water from a nearby creek, with water temperatures typically ranging from 100-110°F (38-43°C) for comfortable soaking. The springs offer breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of surrounding meadows and the Eastern Sierra mountains at an elevation of about 6,890 feet. Visitors should be aware of potential altitude effects due to this elevation.
When is the best time to visit Hilltop Hot Springs?
The ideal seasons to visit Hilltop Hot Springs are during favorable weather conditions outside of winter months. Winter visits can present challenges such as snow and difficult road access. Special experiences include sunset dips and starry night soaks during certain times of the year, making those moments particularly memorable.
What should I pack for my visit to Hilltop Hot Springs?
Essential items to bring include at least one gallon of water per person, towels, swimsuits, and suitable footwear for hiking the trails. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and avoiding glass containers or anything that could harm the environment or other visitors.
Are there any safety guidelines or etiquette tips for soaking at Hilltop Hot Springs?
