Soak the Sierra: Five Hot Springs You Can’t Miss on the 395

Top 5 Hot Springs in the Eastern Sierra

A Locals-Guide Travel Article by Eastern Sierra NOW

From Bishop to Bridgeport, the Eastern Sierra is lined with natural hot springs that somehow make you believe the universe really does want you to relax. Whether you’re chasing sunrise steam, starlit soaking, or that perfect “nobody else knows about this spot” moment — the Eastside delivers.

Here are our top 5 must-soak hot springs, hand-picked, road-tested, and celebrated by locals who live and breathe the 395.

1. Travertine Hot Springs – Iconic

If the Eastern Sierra had a postcard for “soak here and forget all your problems,” it would be Travertine. Natural mineral water flows down smooth travertine terraces into a handful of warm-to-hot pools framed by Sawtooth Ridge.

This spot is gorgeous any time of day, but sunrise? Poetry.

Why locals love it:

• Warm, restorative water

• Soft natural pools

• Huge mountain views

• Easy access just south of Bridgeport

Best time to go: Sunrise or weekday afternoons for fewer crowds.

2. Buckeye Hot Springs – Creekside Wildness

Buckeye is where adventure meets serenity. Tucked into a rocky cliffside with hot water spilling right into Buckeye Creek, you get a rare hot-vs-cold plunge combo you won’t find anywhere else.

There are upper and lower pools, each with different vibes — from quiet reflection to “laugh with your friends while the creek roars next to you.”

Why locals love it:

• Nature-carved creekside pools

• Several temperatures to choose from

• That iconic steaming water cascading down stone

Heads-up: The path down is steep in spots — wear good shoes.

3. Wild Willy’s – The Fan Favorite

This is the spring everyone falls in love with. Famous, spacious, and framed by the endless caldera, Wild Willy’s offers a main natural pool and a few rock-lined side pools that feel like your own private paradise.

Sunsets here are chef’s kiss. The sky goes pink, the water steams, and even the mountains seem to exhale.

Why locals love it:

• Super scenic

• Social and friendly vibe

• Consistently warm water

• A wooden boardwalk stroll adds to the experience

Pro tip: Go at night for stars so bright they look fake.

4. Hilltop Hot Springs (Pulkey’s Pool) – Small, Scenic, Cozy

Hilltop is the intimate hot-springs experience — a single soaking tub fed by naturally hot water you can adjust with a valve like you’re the mountain’s personal spa attendant.

It sits on a small rise with a panoramic 360° view of the Sierra, the White Mountains, and the wide-open Long Valley floor.

Why locals love it:

• Adjustable water temperature

• More secluded and quieter than most

• Unreal views in every direction

Best for: Couples, photographers, and anyone who wants a private-feeling soak without the hike.

5. Benton Hot Springs – Relax Without the Dirt Road Drama

If rustic tubs and dirt roads aren’t your jam, Benton is the Eastern Sierra’s “treat yourself” option. Private tubs, historic cabins, campsites, and naturally heated mineral water make it a full stay-and-soak destination.

Why locals love it:

• Comfortable, cleaned, private tubs

• Perfect for a romantic weekend or a recharge trip

• No guessing road conditions or slipping down creek banks

Best for: Beginners, couples, and road-trippers ending a long day.

Local Tips for Doing It Right

• Bring drinking water — hot springs + high elevation = dehydration sneaks up fast.
• Wear solid shoes — creekside springs can be slippery.
• Check conditions — dirt roads change weekly.
• Go early or late — golden hour light is unbeatable.
• Leave it better than you found it — pack out everything.
• Know before you go — many hot springs are clothing optional, so be aware if you’re planning a family trek.

Why These Springs Feel Like Home

The Eastern Sierra doesn’t just warm your muscles — it warms your spirit. These springs embody what makes the Eastside special: raw beauty, big skies, rugged charm, and that rare feeling that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

Whether you’re on a road trip, a romantic getaway, or a spur-of-the-moment sunset mission, these five springs capture the magic that keeps us all coming back.

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News Staff