• Hot Creek Geological Site is known for its boiling geysers, turquoise-colored pools, and fumaroles
• Hot Creek has been closed to all bathing activities since May 2006
Known for its boiling geysers, turquoise-colored pools, and fumaroles, the Hot Creek Geological Site is a unique geothermal area where you can become a witness of impressive volcanic geology in action.
Hot Creek Geothermal Site is located in a small canyon of Hot Creek that flows through the Long Valley Caldera within the boundary of the Inyo National Forest.
Overview of Hot Creek Geothermal Area
Created over 700,000 years ago by massive volcanic explosions, the 10 by 18 miles depression, or caldera, in the Earth's crust is situated in a large volcanic basin. The water from melted snow in the Sierra Nevada filters down through cracks in the Earth's crust and is then heated to 430°F (220°C) by the molten magma beneath the Inyo Crater and Domes.
Pressurized hot water travels about 10 miles eastward before emerging along the Long Valley Caldera.
The caldera experiences small but periodic earthquakes. However, despite the dynamic geothermal activity, it remains open to curious visitors who want to witness this remarkable ancient landscape of the Eastern Sierra. New hot springs can appear at Hot Creek at any time due to ongoing geological changes.
The Source of Hot Creek’s Water
Originating as an outflow from Twin Lakes and fed by snowmelt, the creek named as Mammoth Creek begins as a cool stream. The name of the stream changes to Hot Creek when it enters the Hot Creek Gorge. When it reaches the geothermal area and mixes with much hotter water from underground thermal vents, with the total flow rate of the hot water about 240 liters per second, its temperature dramatically increases.
At Hot Creek Geothermal Site, the water temperature reaches up tp 199°F (93°C), which is near boiling at the elevation of 7,000 feet.
As the water continues east and mixes with cooler sources, the temperature gradually drops.
At Crab Cooker Hot Springs, the water cools to around 150°F (65°C). Farther out, at Crowley Hot Springs - also known as Wild Willy’s—roughly 5 miles east of Hot Creek, the temperature drops further to below 110°F (43°C).
Hot Creek was once a popular spot for swimming and soaking, but all bathing activities have been prohibited since May 2006 due to its dangerous and unpredictable geothermal activity.
Boiling water can erupt without warning from the stream bed or along its banks as flow rates, temperatures, and geyser activity shift in a matter of seconds. These sudden discharges of scalding, pressurized water make the area extremely hazardous. As a result, many of the places once popular with swimmers are now roped off for safety.
Since 1998, at least 14 people have died or suffered severe burns at Hot Creek, and many others have been injured. Entering the water is strictly forbidden. Visitors are strongly advised to stay on paved or designated paths and refrain from crossing into fenced or restricted areas.
While soaking is no longer permitted at Hot Creek, several primitive hot springs in the Long Valley Caldera remain open for soaking. Nearby options include Shepherd Hot Springs, Crab Cooker Hot Springs, Hilltop Hot Springs (also known as Pulky’s Pool), Rock Tub Hot Springs, and Crowley Hot Springs (Wild Willy’s).
Hot Creek is also a popular destination for wild trout fishing, with catch-and-release regulations in place to preserve the fish population.
Visiting Hot Creek Geothermal Area
Visitors can explore the Hot Creek Geological Site daily from sunrise to sunset. During the winter months, snow lovers can access the area by cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing—each offering a scenic and adventurous way to witness the brilliantly blue pools and the surrounding geothermal landscape. With sweeping views of the Eastern Sierra, this site is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Caution is essential when visiting. The Hot Creek Geothermal Area is extremely hazardous due to scalding water, steam vents, sudden temperature changes, fragile ground surfaces, and the presence of arsenic in the water. Eruptions can occur without warning. Always keep children at a safe distance and ensure dogs are leashed at all times.
The Hot Creek Geological Site is located about 15 minutes south of Mammoth Lakes, just off Hot Creek Hatchery Road.
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Hot Creek Geological Site Camping & Lodging
The camping is not allowed at the hot springs but you can camp on public land or Brown's Owens River Campground is located 5 miles away.
The closest accommodations are available in Mammoth Lakes, 12 miles west.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Mammoth Lakes
Hot Creek Geological Site | Facts
Dangerously Hot for Soaking
Location: 10 miles east of Mammoth Lakes • California • USA
Open: Year-round
Amenities: Interpretive site, vault toilet
Hiking distance: Short
Road Access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Restrictions: No camping, no swimming, no fishing, dogs must be on leash, no climbing into the fenced off areas
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Elevation: 7,000 ft (2,130 m)
Water T° (source): 199°F (93°C)
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Directions to Hot Creek Geological Site
From Mammoth Lakes,
- Travel 3.1 miles southeast on CA-203 E (Main Street) to US-395
- Merge right onto US-395 and drive 3.1 miles southeast to Hot Creek Hatchery Road
- Turn left onto Hot Creek Hatchery Road and continue 3.4 miles. Bear slight left on the fork at Hot Creek Ranch (halfway). The destination will be on the left.
From Benton Crossing Road,
- Turn northwest onto Whitmore Tubs Road and drive 2.7 miles to Hot Creek Hatchery Road
- Turn left onto Hot Creek Hatchery Road and continue 1 mile to the destination on the right.