Discovering Hidden Hot Springs Off Benton Crossing Road: A Personal Adventure
Are secret hot springs in Mammoth Lakes a myth or real?
Exploring hot springs near Mammoth Lakes is always an enchanting experience. But what makes it truly magical are the hidden gems you stumble upon along the way.
On a recent trip through the Mammoth Lakes hot springs area, I ventured off Benton Crossing Road and uncovered two tucked-away hot springs that felt like nature’s secret oasis.
Here’s a glimpse into my adventure, tips for finding these serene spots, and what to expect when you go hunting for secret hot springs in Mammoth Lakes like Lovers’ Tub.
Save and Share this secret hot springs adventure and tips
Tips for Finding Secret Hot Springs in Mammoth Lakes
Finding hidden hot springs is part of the fun, and having the right strategies can make all the difference.
During my own search, these tips helped uncover unexpected gems.
Here are some helpful pointers:
- Scouting Nearby BLM Land: The area around Benton Crossing Road is filled with geothermal activity. Exploring off the main road on BLM land can lead to small, unnamed springs. Keep an eye out for steam rising, especially in cooler months.
- Hidden Springs Near the Owens River: Some springs are near the Owens River and are harder to access. These spots are quieter because fewer people are willing to venture off the beaten path.
- Local Tips: Chat with locals in Mammoth Lakes or outdoor shops. They often know about secret spots but keep them off the internet to preserve their beauty. While we were soaking at the nearby Crab Cooker Hot Springs, we got a tip from a local who was soaking about some secret hot springs nearby. This is what made this blog possible.
- Check Small, Unmarked Paths: Near popular springs like Rock Tub or Wild Willy’s, faint paths sometimes lead to overlooked pools. A short walk can reveal hidden gems.
- Exploring Seasonal Springs: Some hot springs appear only during certain seasons, like after snowmelt or heavy rain. Visiting at the right time of year might uncover something unexpected.
Safety Tips for Hot Spring Adventures
Exploring hidden springs can be an adventure, but safety is key. Here’s how to prepare:
- Wear the Right Shoes: Choose sturdy shoes that fit snugly and can handle mud or water. Flip-flops aren’t the best choice for swampy or uneven terrain.
- Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first aid kit. A map or GPS is also helpful in this remote area.
- Check Road Conditions: Dirt roads can be tricky, especially after rain or snow. A high-clearance vehicle is a smart choice.
- Respect the Environment: Stick to established paths, pack out all trash, and avoid damaging natural features; follow Leave No Trace principle.
My Adventure: Hunting for Lovers’ Tub
Our journey began from a gated parking area off Benton Crossing Road, near Warm Lake.
The scenery was beautiful and grand, setting the perfect backdrop for adventure.
I had heard about two springs in the area, one of which some call Lovers’ Tub, while others simply call it the Secret Pool. Intrigued, we set out to find them.
We explored every terrain imaginable—a dry lakebed, desert patches, swampy areas, and even fields dotted with cow dung.
Some areas were soaked in three feet of water, adding an extra challenge.
At one point, I felt a rush of excitement when I stepped into warm water, thrilled by the possibility of finding a spring, only to burst out laughing (and cringing) as my legs sank into soft, brown mud.
Adventures really do come with unexpected textures!
One spot was so sticky that I lost my flip-flop deep in the muck.
Yes, I had to dig through the mud with my arm to retrieve it! From that point on, I promised myself to always wear better shoes for adventures like this.
Finally, we found a couple of pools, clearly fed by pipes.
However, disappointment hit when we realized the pools were destroyed.
Pipes had been disconnected, and the springs had turned into muddy patches rather than usable soaking spots.
Still, the search was a fun experience, and we weren’t ready to give up just yet.
A Surprise Closer to the Parking Area
On the way back to the van, I spotted another area closer to where we had parked.
My curiosity took over, and I decided to check it out.
This spot also had a hot spring, but like the others, the pool was no longer intact. The water flowed freely in a small stream, too hot to touch at the source.
I made the best of it, rinsing off the mud from my legs, feet, and arms in the cooler parts of the stream. It wasn’t the result I’d hoped for, but it was still an adventure.
Reflections and Future Explorations
Although the pools weren’t what they used to be, I loved the journey.
The thrill of the search, the laughs over unexpected mishaps, and the sheer joy of discovery turned it into a day to remember.
Adventures like this remind me that sometimes the best memories come from the unexpected moments along the way.
Even losing my flip-flop and digging through the mud became part of the story I now cherish.
I can’t help but wonder if there are more secret hot springs in Mammoth Lakes waiting to be found.
Maybe one day someone will rebuild these spots, restoring their charm.
Until then, I’ll keep exploring the beauty of Mammoth Lakes and the hidden treasures it holds.
If you’re up for an adventure, why not take a trip and see what you can discover?
The journey is half the fun, and who knows, you might just stumble upon your own secret oasis.
To start your journey, check out my blog about the Little Green Church, where you turn off on Benton Crossing Road.
And if you’re interested in more accessible options, take a look at the nearby Hilltop Hot Springs and Wild Willy’s Hot Springs. These are wonderful spots to soak up and enjoy the serene beauty of the area.
What’s your favorite hidden hot spring? Let me know in the comments!
Leave a Reply