Mono Lake, tucked away in the Sierra Nevada mountains, is a real California gem. This desert lake is famous for it’s crazy-looking tufa towers and water that’s saltier than your average pickle brine. But here’s the kicker – there are a bunch of hot and warm springs hidden along the shorelines that people have been visiting for ages.
These hot springs are like nature’s spa – they’re perfect for kicking back, relaxing and feeling like you’re one with the great outdoors. The native tribes and early settlers in the area knew what was up and treasured these mineral-rich waters. Some springs are so mysterious, no one quite knows how they came to be. But one thing’s for sure – people from all over can’t resist taking a dip in these alluring waters.
A Landscape Like No Other
Mono Lake is like the wild west of California’s nature scene. It’s way out there in the Great Basin desert, surrounded by bare hills and mountains that seem to touch the sky. This lake is so high up, it’s like it’s trying to be friends with Yosemite National Park.
Now, don’t go looking for fish in Mono Lake – the water’s too salty and alkaline for them. But there’s plenty of tiny critters like phytoplankton, brine shrimp and alkali flies living their best lives in the lake. Migratory birds flock here for the all-you-can-eat buffet. And freshwater springs along the shorelines have been keeping wildlife hydrated for ages.
The lake’s shorelines are dotted with these crazy-looking calcium carbonate spires called “tufa towers.” They’ve been forming for so long, they’re like the wise old sentinels of Mono Lake. Some of these towers are taller than your average house, making the whole place look like something out of a sci-fi movie.
The Allure of Geothermal Waters
Geothermal waters have attracted people for millennia. Native American tribes such as the Pauite and Shoshone have long treasured the Mono Basin’s hot springs. The healing mineral waters were considered sacred grounds. Early trappers, loggers, ranchers and miners later frequented the remote springs for both practical needs and enjoyment.
The local hot springs emit waters heated deep underground by the Earth’s molten core. As the steaming waters rise back up, they absorb an array of minerals from the porous volcanic rock. Each spring’s unique mineral composition and temperature provide specialized relaxation and healing benefits.
Soaking in these geothermal pools can lower stress, relieve pain, improve circulation, nourish skin and promote an overall sense of well-being. The mineral-infused waters contain calcium, lithium, iron, arsenic, boron, magnesium and an array of natural salts and electrolytes.
Alkaline soda springs contain dissolved carbon dioxide that forms refreshing carbonated water. And some springs feature black mineral muds with cleansing and rejuvenating effects. One can sample the array of springs to discover which waters provide the most enjoyment.
Spending time around the hot springs also allows for connecting with nature and wildlife. The sounds of birds calling across the lake mix with the gentle lapping of mineral water against shoreline stones. Care must be taken not to disrupt these fragile ecosystems. But the ability to soak within the Mono Basin’s natural splendor creates memories that can last a lifetime.
Notable Hot Springs of Mono Lake
While there are well over a dozen hot spring sites scattered around Mono Lake, a few have become popular destinations. These developed and accessible springs offer stunning shoreline views along with pools warmed by nature. They attract visitors from around California and beyond.
Pan Hot Springs
Tucked into a cove along the southeastern shores lies Pan Hot Springs – one of the most visited springs thanks to developed pools and facilities. A large pool collects hot creek waters before they feed into the lake. Temperatures average around 105°F, allowing for relaxed soaking and swimming.
The springs also supply a series of private and public baths carved out of volcanic rock. These offer incredible views out over Mono Lake with it’s shimmering towers of tufa. Visitors can relax in a variety of pools from 100° down to 80° waters. And an on-site lodge and restaurant provides accommodations for overnight stays.
Navy Beach
At the opposite end of the lake lies Navy Beach – a popular shoreline region renowned for underwater freshwater springs. While no visible pools exist, the shoreline sands heat up from waters simmering just below. Soakers here dig into the warm sands, allowing pleasantly hot waters to well up within the holes.
The Navy Beach springs emit at about 110°, providing perfectly heated sands. And temporary rock walls can be built to contain the rising waters. Soakers thus have their own lakeside hot spring pools constantly replenished from underground. All while crystal views of Mono Lake and the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range rise in the distance.
Black Point Hot Springs
Black Point springs have grown increasingly popular in recent years. Located along the southwest shores, a short trail leads overland to several pools carved into a hillside. The largest pool sits at around 98°F with smaller pools descending the hill in the mid 80° range.
Stunning views look south over the lake with a backdrop of mountains. Those willing to make the 1.5 mile trek are rewarded with more isolated springs absent the crowds common at Navy Beach and Pan Hot Springs. And the array of pools of differing temperatures provides options for every preference.
Benton Hot Springs
Benton Hot Springs offers the most developed geothermal pool experience outside the more historic springs resorts to the far north. Over a dozen mineral baths fill this hillside retreat ranging from steaming 104°F pools to larger 85° soaking ponds. Most pools provide stunning views overlooking the expansive shores of Mono Lake.
Visitors can enjoy soaking during the day or spend the night in one of many accommodations. Options range from plush hotel rooms with fireplaces to cozy cottages to basic campsites for RVs and tents. And the kitchen café offers organic fare while the on-site spa provides massage and facials. The springs make an ideal base camp while exploring Mono Lake.
Threats Facing the Hot Springs
The natural geothermal features around Mono Lake face an array of threats impacting their future accessibility and enjoyment. Many springs lie within the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve overseen by the California State Park system. But limited staffing and funding hamper vital resource protection.
Various springs fall on mixed-use public BLM lands with few regulations over use. Clear rules must govern proper use while ensuring equitable access for all. Monitoring is needed to prevent overuse damage and illegal modifications diverting spring flows. Careless visitors can disrupt fragile desert ecosystems that provide vital habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife depending on the springs.
Increasing visitation places pressures on the springs that may not be sustainable. Popular springs like Navy Beach suffer from litter and waste issues along with users digging excessive pools. Solutions range from requiring portable toilets at undeveloped sites to permitting only small hand shovels. Signage must educate people to follow leave no trace principles and stay on marked trails.
Ongoing climate change threatens to impact water availability feeding the springs. Recent low lake levels place upstream pressure on tributaries supplying many hot spring sites. And hotter drought conditions can shift underground geothermal activities that generate the coveted warm waters. Managing visitor access may become vital if spring flows decline in coming decades due to regional drying.
Preserving the Springs for Future Generations
Thankfully local land agencies have begun collaborating to protect Mono Lake’s precious hot springs for generations to come. Public education promotes responsible use while facilities improvements direct foot traffic to prevent shoreline damage. Scientific monitoring assesses potential climate change impacts along with enacting sustainable use levels.
Visitors also have a duty to follow all land use regulations and practice extreme care around the fragile springs. Simple acts like staying on trails, packing out trash and not modifying pools can significantly reduce impacts over time. Taking only photos without physically disturbing these special places allows others to enjoy the same experiences for years into the future.
Together stakeholders can find ways to experience Mono Lake’s wondrous geothermal offerings while safeguarding their longevity. The native tribes viewed these sacred waters as gifts of the Earth meant for all people. With public engagement and cooperation, the hot springs of Mono Lake will continue granting their blessings for centuries yet to come.
When To Visit
The best times to visit the hot springs are typically late spring through early fall when access roads and hiking trails are open.
Late Spring (May & June)
- Warm days and cool evenings make for pleasant soaking
- Wildflowers bloom across the basin providing beautiful scenery
- Opportunities for solitude before peak summertime crowds arrive
- Some campgrounds and facilities may still be closed
Summer (July & August)
- Hot springs provide refreshing respite from summer heat
- Peak visitation during summer months means popular springs get crowded
- Highway 120 over Tioga Pass is open allowing access from the east
- Thunderstorms can bring afternoon lightning hazards
Early Fall (September & October)
- Most facilities and roads remain open through September
- Fewer crowds during shoulder season
- Autumn foliage arrives but passes quickly at high elevations
- Cooler temperatures require bundling up after soaking
While winter provides stunning snow-covered scenery, access is extremely limited as roads close due to snow. Only a few hardy souls venture to backcountry hot springs during winter months.
Things to Enjoy and Adventures
Here are some recommended activities and adventures to enjoy during a visit to the Mono Lake hot springs:
- Take a swim in Navy Beach’s underground hot springs – Dig your own hot pool in the lakeside sand and let the geothermal waters bubble up to soak away your worries
- Rent a canoe or kayak to paddle around the tufa towers – Get a unique perspective of the otherworldly rock formations from a boat on the water
- Go for a hike along one of the streams feeding the hot springs – Follow the mineral-rich waters back up into the surrounding mountains for scenic vistas
- Join a Mono Lake photography tour – Capturing iconic images of the tufa towers and Sierra Nevada mountains at sunrise/sunset is spectacular
- Take an ecological tour to learn about the lake’s unique ecosystem – Expert naturalists explain the adaptions of brine shrimp, alkali flies, migratory birds and more rely on Mono Lake’s food web
- Go birdwatching during spring and fall migrations – Hundreds of thousands of birds stop to feed at Mono Lake, making it a top birding destination
- Relax in the saltwater pools at Benton Hot Springs resort – Massages, yoga classes and dining complete the full-service hot springs experience
- Sample local wines at the Mono Lake Winery tasting room – Savor award-winning wines crafted from high elevation grapes grown in volcanic soils
- Attend one of the annual Mono Lake events – The waterfowl migration in April, outdoor summer concerts, county fair in September and starry night skies in December
With year-round recreational opportunities ranging from wilderness adventures to wine tasting, the Mono Lake region truly offers something for every interest while soaking in the healing hot springs.
Plan Your Visit
Most of Mono Lake’s hot springs lie within the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve managed by the California State Parks system. Hours vary by season and location. Day use fees range $3-8 while overnight camping costs $15-45 depending upon facilities.
The nearest town with full amenities is Lee Vining, about 10-15 minutes from most spring sites around the lake. Rangers here can provide maps, permits and recommendations for responsible use. Be sure to call ahead as mobile and data service is extremely limited across the remote Mono Basin.
Many springs see peak visitation during summer months of June through September when seasonal roads open access. But spring and fall allow more chance for solitude during moderate weather. Pack ample water, sun protection, first aid supplies and non-slip footwear for visiting. Plan to carry out all waste while practicing leave no trace principles when soaking.
While most sites lie within a few miles of shore access points, take caution navigating dirt roads leading to springs. A high clearance vehicle with 4WD allows reaching more isolated destinations. Be wary of lightning during summer storms and check forecasts regularly for this high elevation area.
So whether seeking healing waters, a deeper connection with nature or just a chance to unwind, the legendary hot springs of Mono Lake offer an incredible diversity of experiences. These remote desert oases have welcomed travelers for thousands of years. And with active stewardship from visitors, these precious geothermal resources will continue granting their gifts forevermore.
FAQs
Bring water, snacks, sunprotection, towel, non-slip sandals, first aid kit, flashlight and biodegradable soap if cleaning is needed. Also pack out any trash. Leave no trace!
Temperatures range from 80°F to over 105°F. Test cautiously before soaking. Navy Beach reaches about 110°F in it’s sandy pools.
Some springs follow optional clothing guidelines. Be prepared to potentially encounter nude soakers. Families with children should use discretion. When in doubt, wear a swimsuit.
Yes, camping is allowed at some springs like Pan Hot Springs. Other sites fall on public lands permitting dispersed backcountry camping if following leave No Trace principles. Research land agency rules for each area first.
Developed springs like Pan and Benton feature changing rooms and flush toilets. Most backcountry springs are entirely primitive with no facilities whatsoever. Come prepared to change discreetly and pack waste out.
Most likely not. Cell and data coverage is extremely limited across the remote Mono Lake region. GPS mapping offline is advisable. Consider bringing an emergency satellite communicator if venturing to isolated backcountry springs.
Generally no. Soaking pools often prohibit pets to maintain clean waters. Leave furry friends behind when visiting hot springs rather than risking contamination or violations.
