A Quick Foray into Hot Springs in Nevada and California

by Sean Block and Sara Piccola

(Appeared in Healthy Beginnings Magazine.)

Hot Springs are a source of flowing water that has been heated through contact with hot or molten rock and has emerged to the Earth’s surface. This can happen when groundwater circulates unusually deep within the Earth, and then rises, rapidly.

There are countless hot springs scattered throughout Nevada and California (and there are bound to be a few undiscovered gems still out there). Four of them, in the general vicinity of Reno, have been safely harnessed as businesses, offering rest and relaxation.

Steamboat Hot Springs is the closest hot springs to the Reno area. Located just off of Highway 395, past the Summit Mall, the healing waters of Steamboat Villa Hot Springs have been around since the 1800’s, and the spa has been offering numerous services since 1996. From massage, mud wraps, facials, detox, reflexology, acoustic healing and mineral baths, this is the perfect place to go for a break or a day off.

There are well over a dozen unregulated hot springs scattered throughout Nevada and California. These relatively uninhabited springs offer remote relaxation with amazing views for those adventurous enough to seek them out.

Because hot springs rely on geothermal hotspots, they tend to be found in groups. One such pocket of activity can be found a few miles outside of Bridgeport, Calif. Travertine Hot Springs boasts a wonderful panoramic view of the Sierra mountains and is located just over a half-mile from town. Turn left on to Jack Sawyer Road, south of Bridgeport, and follow it for about a mile. Limited camping is available.

Buckeye hot springs is to the North of Bridgeport in the Toiyabe National Forest. The remote location hides a brook that cascades into a cave. Water at the source is too hot to bathe, but the pool created by the creek averages a comfortable 103 degrees. Turn off of route 395, onto Twin Lakes Road, North of Bridgeport. Travel seven miles, then turn right past Doc and Al’s resort.

Cross the bridge over the creek and continue up the gravel road to the parking area. The springs are a quick hike from the parking lot. Camping is also available at Buckeye Campground.

Hot Springs can also be found on or near the Black Rock Playa, about 30 miles outside of Gerlach, Nev., and 120 miles outside of Reno. The area houses an abundance of springs, most of which are quite accessible by vehicles and are open for camping. Traigo, Double, and Soldier Meadows hot springs offer good soaking opportunities (Double hot springs is too hot to enter, but a bathing area has been set aside using water from the pool.) Fly Geyser is a constant spout of artesian hot water that has created a wonderful tower of mineral deposits. Unfortunately the geyser is on private land and can only be viewed with permission, or on a tour. However the ease of travel, or lack thereof makes visiting these springs a commitment…or an adventure, depending on your point of view.

Be aware; ANY uncontrolled hot spring can be a dangerous way to enjoy nature’s hot tubs. If you choose to seek them out, make sure to stay alert. Test the water, and pay attention to your surroundings. Hot Springs can increase in temperature in seconds due to variations in the waters that feed them from below.

For the most complete anthology of hot springs in the area, check out the book Touring California and Nevada Hot Springs by Matt Bischoff. Be safe, and happy soaking!

For a list of tour dates for Fly Geyser, subscribe to the newsletter at www.blackrockdesert.org/calendar/.

References:

www.steamboatsprings.org

“Touring California and Nevada Hot Springs” by Matt Bischoff

“Hot Spots: A Guide To Area Hot Springs” by Geralda Miller