Monarch Hot Springs

## Overview Monarch Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located in the desert landscape of Riverside County, California, near the community of Desert Hot Springs. Situated at approximately 33.91°N, 116.44°W, this spring lies within the geothermally active zone along the Mission Creek Fault, a region renowned for its abundance of hot mineral springs fed by deep underground aquifers. The Desert Hot Springs area sits atop a unique geological formation where the Mission Creek branch of the San Andreas Fault acts as a natural dam, trapping hot water in a deep aquifer on the north side while cooler water flows on the south side — a phenomenon that has drawn visitors and settlers to this region for well over a century. The hot springs of this area have a long history of use. The Cahuilla people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Coachella Valley, are believed to have utilized the region's thermal waters for centuries. In the early 20th century, the area's geothermal resources attracted homesteaders and health seekers, eventually giving rise to the city of Desert Hot Springs, which was incorporated in 1963 and has since become known as "The Spa City." Monarch Hot Springs is one of many natural thermal features in this corridor, contributing to the area's reputation as one of the premier hot spring destinations in Southern California. While specific water temperature and mineral content data for Monarch Hot Springs have not been independently verified, hot springs in the Desert Hot Springs area typically range from approximately 90°F to over 170°F at the source, with waters that are often reported to be rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfate. Visitors have historically valued these thermal waters for their perceived therapeutic and relaxation benefits. ## Directions 1. From Palm Springs, head north on Indian Canyon Drive (CA-111) toward Desert Hot Springs. 2. Continue north through the intersection with Interstate 10, following signs for Desert Hot Springs. 3. The spring is located in the general vicinity of GPS coordinates 33.9113, -116.4431. Use these coordinates in a GPS or mapping application for the most precise navigation to the site. 4. Be aware that the area is largely undeveloped desert terrain. A vehicle with good clearance may be helpful if the final approach involves unpaved roads. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. Conditions on the ground may vary, and visitors should confirm access routes before heading out.* ## What to Expect Monarch Hot Springs is situated in the open desert north of Palm Springs, surrounded by the rugged, arid beauty of the Coachella Valley. The landscape features sandy terrain, sparse desert vegetation, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the San Jacinto and Little San Bernardino ranges. As with many natural hot springs in this region, visitors should be prepared for remote desert conditions. Daytime temperatures in summer can exceed 110°F, so cooler months (October through April) are generally the most comfortable time to visit. There are limited facilities in the immediate area, so bringing plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear for rocky or sandy ground is advisable. The spring's exact flow and accessibility may vary with seasonal and geological conditions. Visitors exploring this area should exercise caution around hot spring sources, as water temperatures can be scalding at the point of emergence. It is also worth checking current land access status, as some springs in the Desert Hot Springs area are located on private property or within areas that may have restricted access.