🍁 Hidden Gem Hot Spring Valley + Hot Spring Guide Along Highway 395

Highway 395 in California isn’t just about mountains, lakes, snow peaks, and meadows—it also hides surprising natural hot springs that are totally worth adding to your itinerary 📌. Sharing one of my favorite spots along 395: 🌄 Hot Creek Geological Site About 15 minutes from Mammoth Lakes. This geothermal valley features steaming streams, misty vapors, and colorful mineral deposits—super dreamy! You can walk down to explore. ⚠️ Note: Soaking in the main creek is officially prohibited due to sudden temperature changes and potential geyser activity. But just strolling the boardwalk, watching sulfur springs bubble, and seeing blue waters against snowy peaks feels like stepping into a magical valley. Great for photos! 🏔️ Brees Overlook Just a short drive up from the hot springs, offering panoramic views of the valley (though in fall, snow might already be melted from the peaks). 💦 Nearby Wild Hot Springs Recommendations If you love soaking, check these wild hot springs east of Highway 395: ♨️ Wild Willy’s Hot Spring – We tried this one! Locals say it’s their favorite—hot water and spacious pools. A 5-minute walk on a boardwalk leads to natural pools with moderate temps. Perfect for sunrise or sunset soaks with mountain views. ♨️ Crab Cooker Hot Spring – Less crowded, smaller but hotter pools. Imagine stargazing while soaking at night! 🌌 ♨️ Hilltop Hot Spring – Fits 2–4 people, more private—ideal for couples or small groups. 🚙 Tips: Download offline maps—many springs are on dirt roads. Google Maps can locate most entrances. 🩴 Bring towels, flip-flops, and avoid white shoes (it’s muddy!). ⏰ Suggested Itinerary: • Morning: Hike or explore lakes around Mammoth Lakes. • Afternoon: Visit Hot Creek Geological Site for geothermal wonders. • Evening: Soak in a wild hot spring at sunset, then stay in Mammoth or Bishop town. • Dinner: Treat yourself to a steak dinner (The Mogul Steakhouse is great!), then stroll under the stars. #CaliforniaRoadTrip #Highway395 #WildHotSprings #MammothLakes #HiddenGems #FallWanderlust #TravelGuide #HikingTheWorld #BayAreaWeekends #CaliforniaTravel #AutumnAdventures #CollectAutumns