How to Visit Travertine Hot Springs Near Mammoth Lakes, CA

A few summers ago, I spent a freezing weekend camping in June Lake in the Eastern Sierras. It was late June so I figured the weather would be pleasant, but overnight the temperatures dropped to the low 30os. Thankfully I’d brought enough blankets, but on my last morning, I’d had enough and decided to head home early, by way of a soak in the natural hot springs at Travertine Hot Springs just outside of downtown Bridgeport. In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about visiting these beautiful hot springs! 

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Why You Should Visit Travertine Hot Springs

The previous day, I’d checked out Wild Willy’s, one of the most popular hot springs in Mono County to warm up. I fell in love with soaking in natural pools surrounded by such beautiful scenery. So, I knew I had to try another hot spring since I was in the area. A quick Google search told me that Travertine had more pools than Wild Willy’s and while they’re still a popular destination, they’re a bit less busy.

Where is Travertine Hot Springs

Travertine Hot Springs is located near Bridgeport, California, in Mono County about an hour north of Mammoth Lakes. From Highway 395, you’ll turn onto Jack Sawyer Road which is near the ranger station. 

Follow Jack Sawyer Rd for about a mile. The road will turn into a dirt road that is very rough. Take your time on this road and you will see signs for Travertine Hot Springs. 

There is a small parking lot at the end of the road near the hot springs. There is actually a manmade hot tub in the parking area! However, the main hot springs are just a short walk from the parking lot. 

The Best Time of Year to Visit Travertine Hot Springs

The best time of year to visit the hot springs are in the Spring and Fall. The cooler temperatures are ideal for soaking in the hot springs. In the spring, you’ll have beautiful wildflowers dotting the landscape and in the fall you’ll have the gorgeous fall foliage colors. This time of year is less crowded than in the summer.

You can visit in the summer, however, the daytime temperatures are quite hot making soaking less appealing. If you’re visiting in the summer, go first thing in the morning or in the evening. A nighttime soak under the stars would be perfect in the summer time!

I haven’t done it, yet, but I can imagine there is a magical quality to soaking in the hot springs in the winter. I can just picture the water steaming against a snowy landscape and feeling the warmth contrasted with the cold air. You’ll be more likely to have the hot springs to yourself. However, the road conditions can be very challenging. Make sure you have a vehicle that has 4WD, high clearance, and can handle this type of terrain.

No matter which time of year you decide to visit, make sure to check the weather and road conditions before your trip.

Things to Know Before Visit Travertine Hot Springs

Before you visit Travertine there are a few things to know.

Follow Leave No Trace Principles: This is beautiful public land and visitors need to treat it with respect so future generations can visit. When walking around the hot springs, stick to established paths. Anything you bring in, bring out with you. Do not bring anything glass! 

Clothing is Optional: Travertine is known for its clothing-optional bathing environment. This means you may encounter people who choose to bath without swimsuits. If you are uncomfortable with nudity, it’s something to be aware of before you visit.

Parking Lot Fills Up: The parking lot can get crowded, especially on weekends and peak travel season. But if you’re one of the early risers you should have no problem securing a spot. If you’re traveling with a group of people, be sure to carpool! 

Bring What You Need: Below, I’ll go further into detail about what to bring with you to Travertine, but I wanted to highlight it here because it’s so important to have the essentials with you. The hot springs are in a remote location with very limited (if any) cell phone service. Make sure that you have plenty of water and snacks. You’ll also want to bring a change of clothes for after your soak.

Respect Others: The pools aren’t very large so be prepared to share with other visitors. 

Stay Safe: The heat of these pools can dehydrate you quickly, so make sure you drink plenty of water and replace your electrolytes lost from sweat. The rock formations around the hot springs can be slippery so take care when moving in and out of the water. 

Toilets: There are vault toilets in the parking area, but you may want to bring your own toilet paper, just in case they haven’t been serviced recently.

The Travertine Hot Spring Pools

What I love about Travertine Hot Springs how many pools there are to choose from. There are at least 10 hot springs and many have space for only one person, so if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to get one to yourself! 

As mentioned above, the first pool you’ll see is a cement tub in the parking lot. I love that this allows those who may not be able to walk to the other pools the ability to enjoy the experience. 

Just past the cement tub, you’ll see a trail. Follow this to four tubs on the right hand side. 

These tubs can fit 1-4 people and are varying temperatures. One of the them, on the far side, is very small and very hot, but the views are amazing from it if you can stand the heat! 

My two favorite hot springs that I found are located just down the hill from these. Follow the trail through the rocks and down the hill. You’ll see two hot springs side by side. The first is deep enough to cover your shoulders and quite warm (but tolerable). The second is wider and more shallow. Since it’s more shallow it’s a bit cooler.

Both of these tubs have amazing views of the snow capped mountains and meadows.

There are more tubs along the trail, but they’re only big enough for one person. When I went they were all already being used so I didn’t get to sample them!

What to Bring to Travertine Hot Springs

Bathing Suit: Even though clothing is optional, a bathing suit is a good idea to bring. I wore a bathing suit during my visit, but ended up sharing a pool with a nude bather.

Towel: Bring a lightweight, quick drying towel to dry off after your soak or to wrap around yourself as you try out the different pools. 

Robe: If you’re visiting in the winter or are planning to embrace the clothing optional atmosphere, a warm cozy robe would add even more relaxation to your visit. Wrapping up in a robe in between dips or on the walk back to the car would be so cozy!

Water Shoes: The bottom of the pools are rocky and a bit slippery. I wore my Teva water shoes in the pool, then once I got settled, I took them off. They were easy to slip back on as I moved to another pool.

Water Bottle: Bring an insulated reusable water bottle to help you stay hydrated and refreshed. You know I love Hydro Flask for this!

Warm Change of Clothes: It often gets chilly, especially in the early mornings or in the evenings, so pack warm comfortable clothes to change into after your soak. A baggy pair of sweats and a cozy sweatshirt would be ideal. If you’re visiting in the summer though, a t-shirt and shorts may be better. 

Dry Bag or Backpack: Store your phone, keys and other valuables in a dry bag or in a backpack. 

Sun Protection: If you’re visiting during the day, you will need sun protection even if the sun isn’t out as the area is completely exposed. I recommend using a wide-brimmed sun hat to protect your face as well as wearing sunscreen (SunBum is my favorite). 

Bug Repellent: There are some horse flies and other bugs that hang out near the pools. Use these bug repellent wipes to try and prevent bites.

First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, hand sanitizer, and personal medication is handy in case of minor injuries.

Snacks: Since you’re about 20 minutes away from any services, bring plenty of snacks. Especially if you plan on spending more than an hour here!

Where to Stay Near Travertine Hot Springs

If you want to extend your stay in the area, I recommend checking out the fun things to do in June Lake or even camping at Convict Lake.

If you want to stay near Travertine Hot Springs there are a few rustic accommodation options in Bridgeport.

Bridgeport Inn: The Bridgeport Inn is a historic , Victorian Inn built in 1877. The rooms are quaint with antique furnishing and there is an onsite restaurant. 

Check rates and availability here.

Walker River Lodge: This motel style accommodation gives Schitt’s Creek vibes in the best way possible. It even overlooks the river!

Check rates and availability here.

Other Hot Springs Near Mammoth Lakes

There are a number of other hot springs near Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding area. 

Wild Willy’s Hot Springs: Wild Willy’s is one of the most popular hot springs in the area thanks to its Insta famous tub that is supposedly in the shape of a heart. I didn’t see the heart shape when I visited, but it’s still worth the trip!

Crab Cooker Hot Springs: This is a single, small pool with a pipe that pumps hot water into it. However, according to reviews the water is incredibly hot, almost unbearable, so I opted to skip it!

I hope that you have an amazing and relaxing time soaking in the Travertine Hot Springs. The area is absolutely beautiful and it’s such a unique experience to soak in these natural hot springs. Enjoy!

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