Sierra Hot Springs: Soaking in the Great Outdoors

IMAGINE SPENDING A WINTRY DAY soaking in a hot springs pool — or sitting in a wood-fired sauna — surrounded by Nature’s beauty. The High Sierra has some impressive spots:

GROVER HOT SPRINGS
Located four miles west of Markleeville, Grover Hot Springs State Park features a naturally heated hot spring pool, as well as a large swimming pool. It is located in an alpine meadow and pine forest surrounded by snowy peaks. Open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursdays through Tuesdays. Parks.Ca.Gov

SORENSEN’S WOOD-FIRED SAUNA
Sorensen’s Resort in Hope Valley, near Tahoe, has a Norwegian-style wood-fired sauna. It is exhilarating to jump in the snow afterward. SorensensResort.com

SIERRA HOT SPRINGS
Set on the edge of Tahoe National Forest in Sierraville, the hot springs resort consists of an 1870s lodge and a rustic hotel. Spa services and indoor and outdoor pools. A new sauna is being built. Clothing is optional. SierraHotSprings.org

KEOUGH’S HOT SPRINGS
Opened in 1919, Keough’s is the largest natural hot springs pool in the Eastern Sierra. Camping and tent cabins. From Mammoth Lakes, drive south about one hour on U.S. 395 to Keogh Hot Springs Road. Closed Tuesdays. KeoughsHotSprings.com

BENTON HOT SPRINGS
Soak in soothing waters under the stars and explore an historic mining town. Natural mineral water rises to the earth’s surface at 140 degrees. Springs are located on State Route 120, about an hour’s drive northeast of Mammoth Lakes. Reservations suggested. BentonHotSprings.org

SORENSEN’S WEATHER STATION
Sorensen’s is the site of an official National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration (NOAA) weather station. Information, relayed by the DRI Western Regional Climate Center, gives real-time weather information. It is helpful for finding out about road conditions and new snow. Visit wrcc.dri.edu/weather/csrr.html.

(Photo: Dan Patitucci)

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