Fales Hot Springs

## Overview Fales Hot Springs is a natural geothermal hot spring located along the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada in Mono County, California, near the small historic community of Fales Hot Springs. Situated at approximately 38.3518° N, 119.4006° W, the springs sit at an elevation of roughly 7,000 feet in the high desert landscape between Bridgeport and the Sonora Pass along U.S. Route 395. The Fales Hot Springs area has a long history of use. A small resort once operated at this location, and the geothermal waters have drawn visitors for well over a century. The springs are part of a broader geothermal system found throughout the eastern Sierra, where volcanic activity and deep fault lines allow heated groundwater to rise to the surface. The hot water emerges naturally, and the site has historically been used as a free soaking destination by travelers and locals alike. The water temperature at Fales Hot Springs has been reported to be quite warm, typical of geothermal springs in the region, though exact temperatures can vary seasonally and by specific pool. Visitors have historically noted the water has a slight mineral smell characteristic of sulfur-bearing geothermal springs. ## Directions 1. From Bridgeport, California, head north on U.S. Route 395. 2. Travel approximately 13 miles north of Bridgeport (or about 7 miles south of the junction of Highway 108 / Sonora Pass and US-395). 3. Watch for the Fales Hot Springs area on the west side of the highway. The springs are located close to the road, near the remnants of the old Fales Hot Springs resort. 4. GPS coordinates: 38.3518° N, 119.4006° W. Parking is informal along the roadside. *Note: Road conditions along US-395 are generally good year-round, but winter weather can bring snow and ice at this elevation. The Sonora Pass (Highway 108) is typically closed in winter, but US-395 remains open.* ## What to Expect Fales Hot Springs offers a rustic, undeveloped soaking experience in a dramatic high-desert setting with sweeping views of the eastern Sierra Nevada. The area features one or more natural hot pools where geothermally heated water collects. The pools are informal and vary in size and temperature — some may be quite hot near the source, while others cool as they flow away. The surrounding landscape is arid sagebrush steppe, with wide-open views of the mountains. There are no facilities, restrooms, or developed amenities at the site — this is a primitive, free hot spring. Visitors should pack out all trash and leave no trace. The springs can be visited year-round, though winter visits require preparation for cold temperatures and potentially icy roads. Summer and fall are the most popular seasons, when the contrast between the hot water and cool mountain air is especially enjoyable. The area is remote, so visitors should come prepared with water, supplies, and a full tank of gas. Because the springs are located near the highway, they are relatively easy to access compared to many backcountry hot springs in the Sierra. However, the informal nature of the site means conditions can change — pools may shift, and the area may show signs of previous visitors. Respect for the natural environment helps keep this free resource available for everyone.