Morton’s Warm Springs

## Overview Morton's Warm Springs is a historic warm spring resort located in the Sonoma Valley of Northern California, near the town of Glen Ellen. Situated at approximately 38.3946° N, 122.5508° W, the springs have been a beloved gathering place for well over a century. The naturally heated mineral waters emerge from the earth in this geothermally active region of Sonoma County, where volcanic activity along the edges of the Sonoma Mountains has given rise to several notable warm and hot springs. The springs have a long history of recreational use dating back to the mid-1800s, when Sonoma County's thermal waters attracted visitors seeking relaxation and the reputed health benefits of mineral bathing. Morton's Warm Springs became one of the most popular swimming destinations in the region, offering warm, naturally fed pools in a shaded, parklike setting along Sonoma Creek. The property has operated as a seasonal resort and day-use recreation area, drawing families and locals for generations. The warm springs are part of a broader geothermal zone in the Sonoma Valley, where underground heat sources warm groundwater as it circulates through fractured volcanic rock. This process naturally enriches the water with dissolved minerals before it rises to the surface. The water temperature has historically been reported as comfortably warm — warmer than the surrounding creek water — making it a pleasant spot for swimming even on cooler days. ## Directions 1. From the town of Glen Ellen in Sonoma County, head west on Warm Springs Road. 2. Follow Warm Springs Road for approximately 1 mile as it winds through the valley. 3. Morton's Warm Springs is located along Warm Springs Road — watch for signage on the left side of the road. 4. GPS coordinates: 38.3946, -122.5508. Plugging "Morton's Warm Springs, Glen Ellen, CA" into a navigation app should route you directly to the property. *Note: The facility has historically operated on a seasonal basis (typically summer months). It is advisable to check current operating status and hours before visiting, as access and ownership arrangements may have changed over the years.* ## What to Expect Morton's Warm Springs is set in a beautiful, tree-shaded valley along Sonoma Creek, surrounded by the rolling oak-studded hills of Sonoma County wine country. The property features naturally warm pools fed by the geothermal springs, and the setting is lush and inviting — a mix of mature oaks, bay laurels, and open grassy areas ideal for picnicking and relaxing. Visitors have historically enjoyed swimming in the warm mineral pools, sunbathing on the surrounding grounds, and exploring the creekside environment. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with a distinctly old-California charm that reflects the property's long history as a community gathering spot. Because the facility has gone through various periods of operation and closure over the decades, conditions and access may vary. The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for wine tasting, hiking in nearby Jack London State Historic Park and Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, and exploring the charming small towns of Glen Ellen and Kenwood.