Hot creek geological site. Hot Creek is a place to marvel at geology in action.

Hot creek geological site. This extraordinary destination is one of those rare spots on Earth where you can witness the profound geological processes that shape our planet up close. Find out where to park, what to bring, and what to expect at this unique geothermal wonder near Mammoth Lakes. Hot Creek is a place to marvel at geology in action. 4 mile dirt road off of U. The area is Read more Apr 24, 2025 · Hot Creek Geological Site is a must see when you are in the Mammoth Lakes area. While the fishing may not always be very easy at Hot Creek, the scenery is always easy on the eyes. Despite offering a parking area and restrooms at the Hot Creek Geological Site, the U. But that’s exactly what makes it fascinating Oct 19, 2023 · Hot Creek is the lower reach of Mammoth Creek where several vigorous hot springs discharge hot water to the surface; the largest springs discharge subaqueously into the stream. Hot Creek Geological Site Information The mountain region of Mammoth Lakes, California, sits on a thin surface of the earth, active with geothermal activity. Temperatures can range from highs of 90°F in summer to lows of 20°F in winter. Nov 16, 2023 · Hot Creek Geologic Site is accessible by a 3. At the Hot Creek Geological Site Trailhead you For a graphic view of the area’s geothermal power, journey south of Mammoth Lakes to where chilly Mammoth Creek blends with hot springs and continues its journey as Hot Creek. 35 reviews and 212 photos of HOT CREEK GEOLOGIC SITE "All the websites advise against swimming here, due to the danger of getting burned in the water. President Trump has made it clear he wants to keep the government open and support those who feed, fuel, and clothe the American people. Nearby attractions include the Hot Creek Geological Site and the Lunar Crater National Natural Landmark. I wanted to get closer to the bubbling blue hot springs and steaming fumaroles, but obeyed the warning signs and respected the area's deadly history. Boiling Water, Fumaroles, and Geyser Eruptions. In the Hot Creek Geologic Site, located in a narrow gorge 8 miles (12 km) east of the town of Mammoth Lakes, numerous hot springs flow into a snowmelt-fed stream. As you can tell from the picture above, Brees Lookout is a spectacular viewpoint and it should certainly be on your itinerary if you’re visiting the Hot Creek Geological Site Information The mountain region of Mammoth Lakes, California, sits on a thin surface of the earth, active with geothermal activity. You will drive about 3 more miles from this point. The smell is nothing to write home about, but the view at Hot Creek Geologic Site is amazing. The landscape stretches from the creek underfoot to mountain ranges in the distance on every side. May 28, 2025 · Hot Creek geological site near Mammoth Lakes blends boiling springs, and easy boardwalk access, plan your safe science detour today. The Radical Left Democrats shut down the government. Take in a birds-eye view of the hot springs If you just want an aerial view of Hot Creek and its hot springs, there are a couple of vista points flanking the main site. Mar 11, 2025 · Learn how to visit Hot Creek Geologic Site, a stunning natural wonder where steaming hot springs bubble up through a creek. The steam you see along the Hot Creek drainage is created when water percolates deep into the ground and enters a complex underground Dec 17, 2024 · The Hot Creek Geological Site is a mesmerizing place where boiling water bubbles up from the earth, creating a surreal landscape. Forest Service and monitored by the U. This area showcases boiling springs and steaming fumaroles, creating a surreal landscape. As a result, this region is among the best in the state for visiting hot springs such as Hot Creek Geological Site and other Long Valley hot springs. The hot springs and geysers of Hot Creek are visible signs of dynamic geologic processes in this volcanic region, where underground heat drives thermal spring activity. 4 mile (. Oct 19, 2023 · Hot Creek Geologic Site, Long Valley, California Hot Creek is the lower reach of Mammoth Creek where several vigorous hot springs discharge hot water to the surface; the largest springs discharge subaqueously into the stream. From there, go two miles down this road until you see a turn-off for the site. For information on recreation site status on National Forest System lands, please visit https Explored the incredible Hot Creek Geological Site near Mammoth Lakes! 🌋💦 Did you know this spot is part of the Long Valley Caldera, formed by a massive volcanic eruption ? 😮🔥 The Oct 24, 2025 · Hot Creek Geological SiteWhite House Blocks Views Of East Wing Demolition | Beef Price Chaos | The Cobots Are Coming May 9, 2023 · The Hot Creek Geological Site was formed over thousands of years as the result of volcanic activity in the area. Once a popular swimming hole, the runoff of Mammoth Creek joins scalding waters heated by magma roughly 3 miles from the surface at Hot Creek. The area is managed by the U. Visit BringFido for an overview of Hot Creek Geologic Site, along with pictures, directions, and reviews from dog owners who’ve been there. Underground temperatures can spike without warning, geysers appear in new spots, and the creek can suddenly turn scalding. The US Forest Service-administered Hot Creek Geological Area along the stream contains over a dozen steam vents and bubbling blue pools, some of which occasionally erupt to form a geyser. Find Hot Creek Geological Site stock images in HD and millions of other royalty-free stock photos, illustrations and vectors in the Shutterstock collection. Just a few miles north of where we had camped at Crowley Lake Campground, is this fascinating geothermal area— Hot Creek Geologic Site. . 395 after passing the Hot Creek Fish Hatchery, which is open for tours, weather permitting. Plan your trip with hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. The Hot Creek Gorge Trail begins at Hot Creek Geological Site and travels up the beautiful gorge offering great views of the nearby Sierra Nevada peaks and of course lovely Hot Creek. The boiling pools along the creek (93°C at this elevation), commonly change in vigor and location in response to local earthquakes and the This area around Mammoth Lakes is geologically active. Witness the raw power of geothermal activity at Hot Creek Geologic Site, a stunning landscape of boiling hot springs and fumaroles nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra near Mammoth Lakes. Apr 11, 2021 · Hot Creek Geological Site – Location Hot Creek Geological Site is located about 15 minutes from Mammoth Lakes. With From the main parking area and restrooms on the rim of the canyon, this trail descends by way of a wide, paved path 100 feet down to the hot springs and boiling pools of the Hot Creek Geological Site. We'll guide you on how to get the most stunning photos possible. Best Time of Year to Visit the Hot Springs? There are a few factors to keep in mind when planning your trip to visit the Mammoth Lakes hot springs. Inyo National Forest as a geologic interpretive site and recreation area. This famous site is home to two turquoise hot springs that are surrounded by a full beautiful mountain landscape. From here, it’s another 3 miles down a dirt road. Plan your next off-road adventure here. One of Jun 5, 2019 · After staying put for two weeks, it was exciting to get on the road again on 30 May 2019 and to see new sights. Directions: Take US 395 south, turn left towards Mammoth Yosemite Airport, take 2nd right and follow the signs 3 miles (4. The dirt road is passable by any vehicle. Hot Creek Geologic Site lies within 10 miles of the town of Mammoth Lakes, CA in the Long Valley Caldera. Hot Creek Geologic Site is a popular attraction for dogs visiting Mammoth Lakes. It is popular for fishing, swimming, hiking, bird watching, and photography activities. Nov 16, 2023 · Hot Creek is a geothermal area in Long Valley Caldera, California, where hot springs and geysers change location, temperature, and flow rate. Along Hot Creek geology in action can be observed with steam vents and bubbling blue pools. Discover its geology, accessibility, fishing, and nearby attractions in the Eastern Sierra. Oct 12, 2025 · Want to check out Hot Creek Geological Site from the trail? Good news: 1 trails will you get you there, including hiking trails. Hot Creek Campground in Nevada is surrounded by desert terrain with sparse vegetation. Oct 30, 2023 · Hot Creek Geological Site is a stunning location to visit year-round, but winter is an especially wonderful time to explore this unique geological wonder. Whether you're looking to hike, bike, run, or explore the outdoors in other ways. This small gorge forms a series of steaming, bubbling cauldrons, with water shimmering in shades of blue and green reminiscent of the tropics. Nov 30, 2020 · Today we're heading just south of Mammoth Lakes, California to visit a truly unique creek bed which boasts fumaroles, steam vents, and periodic geyser eruptions. Thousands of new, high-quality pictures added every day. This is one of California’s most unpredictable geothermal areas. It looks very similar to lettings of Yellowstone National Park. Hot Creek Geological Site, located less than ten miles from Mammoth Lakes town center, is a Highway 395 must-see for its beautiful location and fascinating geothermal characteristics. The site is located near and a beautiful cold water stream which is located over a geothermal vent. Or was it the other way around 📍 Hot Creek Geological Site The Eastern Sierras in California always blow our minds. ” This place offers bubbling hot creek, with Nov 26, 2024 · Hot Creek is actually the name of the lower stretch of Mammoth Creek, a well-known fishing stream that flows down from Mammoth Lake basin to the site's north. The boiling pools along the creek (93°C at this elevation), commonly change in vigor and location in response to local earthquakes and the Hot Creek is a place to marvel at geology in action. In the hot springs of what is now Hot Creek Geological Site, Henry Hathaway found a location in Inyo National Forest he used numerous times. This geothermal wonderland is defined by azure pools of boiling water, steaming vents, and vivid mineral deposits, all contrasted against the rugged Sierra Nevada mountain backdrop. 8 km) on unpaved, maintained road. Route ends back on Hwy. Apr 30, 2025 · Hot Creek is a place to marvel at geology in action. Pay attention to fencing and signage and stay on walkways to avoid unstable ground. Learn about the geological history, hike the trails, and enjoy the scenic views of the Eastern Sierras. 395 near the Mammoth Lakes airport. The site is a result of a 700,000 year old volcanic explosion and is where Aug 11, 2024 · Hot Creek Geologic Site Located near the town of Mammoth Lakes, Hot Creek Geologic Site is a breathtaking place with boiling, bubbling water in turquoise pools. Parking lot will be on your left. Learn about the geology, history, and hazards of this dynamic and beautiful feature, and how to visit it safely. Hot Creek Geologic Site, which looks like a miniature Yellowstone or Lassen Volcanic, is a wonderful location to see geology’s wonders, from boiling pools and occasional geysers to steaming fumaroles. This otherworldly area is the result of a 700,000 year old volcanic explosion, and the landscape here is always changing and evolving. S. We take a ride out to the site with Debbie Nelson who is a Recreation Specialist for the forest. This super pretty hot creek is located in the heart of the Eastern Sierras. Visiting the Hot Creek Geologic Site is like sitting atop a ticking time bomb. Safety Information There is NO SWIMMING ALLOWED in the Hot Creek Geological Site, due to fluctuating temperatures, and noxious gasses. See Mammoth’s volcanic forces shaking and boiling in real time at Hot Creek Geologic Site, a wonderland of hot springs, fumaroles, and unpredictable geysers, all neatly framed within a narrow, rock-strewn gorge. View a map of this area and more on Natural Atlas. We provide GPS coordinates, driving directions, the best times to shoot, trail difficulty, and what equipment to bring. Mar 26, 2024 · In California, located approximately 8 miles southeast of Mammoth Lakes, off Hot Creek Hatchery Road, the Hot Creek Geological Site offers boiling hot springs, geothermal features, and steam rising from underneath volcanic rocks. No matter how you like to get out in nature, the trails through Hot Creek Jun 9, 2025 · Hot Creek Geologic Site is located near Mammoth, Lake just off the 395 Highway in Mono County, California. 64 km) round-trip walk on a steep, paved,dirt path. Forest Service as a geologic interpretive site and has been a popular recreational area for fishing, swim-ming, hiking, bird watching, and photogra-phy. The Hot Creek Geologic Site is managed by the U. Just don't go swimming. The location is 20 minutes east of the town of Mammoth Lakes. May 4, 2019 · Hot Creek Geological Site is a unique geothermal area where you can see volcanic geology in action with its boiling geysers and fumaroles. But that’s exactly what makes it fascinating Feb 25, 2018 · The Hot Creek Geologic Site which is 8 miles east of Mammoth Lakes, California is an interesting place to explore. Although it is drivable in a passenger car, the gravel road is fairly rough in areas so use caution. Find Hot Creek by Apr 15, 2025 · Hot Creek Geological Site, California There’s a reason the old Hot Creek swimming hole is now off limits. This government website will be updated periodically during the funding lapse for mission critical functions. Aug 8, 2025 · Discover what to expect at the beautiful Hot Creek Geological Site near Mammoth Lakes, CA! Plus, get tips for visiting the geothermal site. The water coming off the mountains is cold, while the hot gases coming up through the sand heats columns of water. After about 1 mile, turn right at the brown sign directing you to the Hot Creek Fish Hatchery and Geological Site. Anything but extinct, the Long Valley Caldera’s subterranean presence is evidenced by evolving geothermal activity at Hot Creek Geological Site. The Hot Creek Gorge area of Hot Creek is managed by the U. We spent this past weekend exploring the Eastern Sierras, and catching sunrise at Hot Creek was absolutely our highlight. Shifting turquoise pools and unpredictable geysering events with waters reaching up to 200 degrees have Dec 15, 2023 · The Hot Creek Geologic Site began forming around half of a million years ago, when glacial melt runoff from the surrounding mountains began accumulating in the Long Valley Caldera near the present location of Lake Crowley. From Mammoth Lakes, drive south on US-395 and take a left turn on to Hot Creek Hatchery Road. Check out my trip details here! Hot Creek is a place to marvel at geology in action. Apr 15, 2025 · Hot Creek Geological Site, California There’s a reason the old Hot Creek swimming hole is now off limits. Geology Earth science Physical science Natural science Science comments sorted by Best Top New Controversial Q&A Add a Comment pacificadventureclub • Additional comment actions Part of the Long Valley Caldera, Hot Creek Geologic Site is a prehistoric phenomena. The trail that leads to Hot Creek Geological Site stays accessible all year long making it one of the best winter hiking destinations near Mammoth Lakes if you’re looking for a fun activity to do besides skiing and snowboarding. The caldera was formed over 760,000 years ago during a massive volcanic eruption that released over 600 cubic kilometers of volcanic material into the air. It is just West of Highway 395 and only minutes form the town of Mammoth Lakes, which has great food, a ski resort, world class mountain biking, and a brewery. Hot Creek Geological Site is part of the Long Valley Caldera, which was formed by an eruption about 760,000 years ago. Jan 18, 2024 · Explore the stunning contrast of turquoise hot springs and volcanic terrain at Hot Creek Geological Site, part of the Long Valley Caldera. Hot Creek is the lower reach of Mammoth Creek where several vigorous hot springs discharge hot water to the surface; the largest springs discharge subaqueously into the stream. From sunrise to sunset, the Feb 18, 2025 · The paved road follows the headwaters of the Owens River until the road turns into dirt. Along this rocky river, dozens of hot springs arise creating beautiful, but dangerous mineral-laden turquoise pools. Oct 5, 2023 · Tips for photographing the Hot Creek Geological Site near Mammoth, CA. If you want views from all three points, make sure to first stop at the point that spurs off the main road before the ‘geologic site. We’ll just ignore the fact that it was also 25 degrees F outside 🥶 Would you withstand 25 degrees to catch this sunrise view? Jan 15, 2025 · Check out the bonus hot springs, Hot Creek Geological Site, which also worth visiting but you can’t soak in. Margaret found out about this area from the ebook, California Boondocking: The Desert and Eastern Sierra—A Frugal Shunpiker’s Guide by Oct 6, 2024 · Hot Creek Geological Site Photo by Paola Angelina Sep 3, 2022 The paved road follows the headwaters of the Owens River until the road turns into dirt. Some rhyolite domes are less than 1000 years old. Hot Creek, managed by U. A well-used dirt trail continues up- and down-canyon along the south 5 days ago · Yes, Hot Creek Geological Site is located on Hot Creek Interpretive Trail. The Long Valley is a popular year round tourist destination for anglers, skiers, campers, cyclists, OHVers, and general outdoor enthusiasts. Mapcarta, the open map. The trail to Hot Creek geological site is a unique place for dramatic Sierra views, a great half-day excursion from Mammoth Lakes in spring, summer or fall. Yes, Hot Creek Geological Site is located on Hot Creek Interpretive Trail. Last-minute getaway? Camping near Hot Creek is easy with Hipcamp, where private landowners offer one-of-a-kind camping experiences. Jan 8, 2000 · Hot Creek Geological Site is nestled in the Inyo National Forest close to the town of Mammoth Lakes. Forest Service, is a popular recreational area. Swimming and bathing are not allowed here. Forest Service no longer allows people swim at Hot Creek because of inconsistencies in the water’s temperatures. Boiling water bubbling up from the creek bed, fumaroles and periodic geyser eruptions at Hot Creek attest to the chamber of hot magma which lies about three miles below the surface of the earth in this area. Hot Creek Geological Site Overview Accessibility: . Watch every Bartell's Backroads adventur Jul 31, 2024 · Things to do at this geologic site in the Eastern Sierra: 1. Sep 24, 2024 · Hot Creek Geological Site is a must-visit for anyone interested in geothermal activity. The steam you see along the Hot Creek drainage is created when water percolates deep into the ground and enters a complex underground Oct 30, 2023 · Learn how to visit Hot Creek Geological Site in winter, a stunning location with steaming geysers, boiling water, and bubbling hot springs. Dec 30, 2024 · Explore Hot Creek Geological Site in California with GPS maps, trail conditions, and trail difficulty details. He took John Wayne there for three movies. The site is part of the Long Valley Caldera, which is one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world. The vibrant colors and steam rising from the creek make it a photographer's dream. Warm water is heated from a magma chamber located about three miles below the earths surface and bubbles Explore camper reviews and photos of the campgrounds in Hot Creek. Welcome to the Hot Creek Geological Site. The Feb 22, 2024 · Hot Creek Hatchery road turns east off of Highway 395, south of Mammoth Lakes. It was the first time my two brothers and I visited this location, which is supposedly known as “Mini Yellowstone. Not all hot springs are safe for bathing — be sure to check if bathing is allowed beforehand. Sep 1, 2025 · Exploring Hot Creek Geologic Site September 01, 2025 Hot Creek is a scenic wonderland containing dozens of natural hot springs bubbling up within the rocky walls of a river gorge and in the shadows of towering Eastern Sierra mountain peaks. The path down to the creek is steep and many adults find themselves needing to catch their breath on the way back up. ’ Then there are the points Hot Creek Geological Site, situated near Mammoth Lakes, California, is an exquisite geological spectacle that offers photographers the chance to capture unique, otherworldly landscapes. Turn right at 3S44 and continue to Hot Creek Geological Site, featuring bubbling hot springs. Nearby: Hot California Volcano Observatory, Long Valley Caldera November 16, 2023 Long Valley Caldera Field Guide - Hot Creek Geologic Site Blue pools and impressive boiling fountains along Hot Creek. Hot Creek Geological Site is a monument in Mono County, California and has an elevation of 7,087 feet. Photographers often gather here for sunset photos, as the view is southwest across the Sierra Nevadas. Brees Lookout overlooks the Hot Creek Geological Site, and provides a spectacular view of the winding creek and boiling hot springs below. Geological Survey and in addition to being gorgeous, it acts as an important fault activity indicator One of the hidden gems along Route 395, Hot Creek Geological Site is a quick but unique stop if you want to check out a group of neon blue geothermal pools. In winter, this area is often snowbound and is popular for snowmobiling (stay on trails as ground can be unstable). Hot Creek Geologic Site Trail is an interpretive trail on Hot Creek in Inyo National Forest, Sierra Nevada, CA. With Steve McQueen for Nevada Smith, with Gregory Peck for Shoot Out. The stream originates from Twin Lakes in Mammoth and continues on to Lake Crowley. It’s also a geological showpiece, a volcanic landscape marked by easy-to-spot evidence of its explosive past. The road leads to the Hot Creek Geological Site (pictured), the Mammoth Yosemite Airport, and the Hot Creek Fish Hatchery managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Photo courtesy of Mono County Tourism Jul 10, 2019 · Just off Highway 395 tucked away in Mammoth Lakes, Hot Creek is a secret geologic wonderland with scenic views of the Eastern Sierra Nevada, boiling hot springs, and even the occasional geyser. iyeqp 4y9 4g86lk bzgwm 68 cm wehq4j 2ea zqktq jitam