Travertine Hot Springs

## Overview Travertine Hot Springs is one of the most popular and beloved free natural hot springs in California's Eastern Sierra, situated just south of the small town of Bridgeport in Mono County. Perched at an elevation of approximately 6,750 feet on Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest land, these geothermal pools offer sweeping, panoramic views of the Sawtooth Ridge and the wide-open desert valley below — a setting that is equally stunning at sunrise and under a canopy of stars. The springs have deep roots in the region's history. The area was once home to the Paiute people, who regarded the hot springs as a sacred and spiritual place. According to local lore, the springs are believed to have been created in the name of Isha, one of the tribe's overseers. Over time, the site has transitioned from a place of cultural and spiritual significance into a widely visited natural attraction. The name "Travertine" comes from the type of limestone that forms around the springs through mineral-rich geothermal activity. In the mid-1890s, approximately 60 tons of travertine stone were mined from this area. The stone was prized for its beauty and durability and was reportedly used in the construction of San Francisco City Hall. Water temperatures in the pools have been reported at around 102°F (39°C), though the large cement-walled tub nearest the parking area can run significantly hotter — hot enough to scald, so always test the water carefully before entering. The water clarity tends to be murky due to the mineral and clay content, which is part of the experience: visitors are well-known for coating themselves in the natural clay found along the travertine bases of the pools. ## Directions 1. From Bridgeport, head south on **US Highway 395** for approximately a quarter mile. 2. Turn **west (right if heading south)** onto **Jack Sawyer Road**, an unmarked, unpaved road. 3. The pavement quickly gives way to a graded **dirt road**. Continue along this road for approximately **one mile** until you reach the **parking area** at the springs. **GPS Coordinates:** 38.2458651, -119.2054099 **Map Quad:** Big Alkali **Winter Note:** Jack Sawyer Road may not be plowed or maintained during winter months. Snow, ice, and mud can make the road impassable. Exercise extreme caution if visiting in cold or wet weather. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially in adverse conditions. ## What to Expect **The Pools:** There are several distinct soaking pools at Travertine Hot Springs. The largest is a **cement-walled tub** located right next to the parking area and is **ADA-accessible**. This pool can accommodate roughly six people but can run extremely hot — always do a careful toe-dunk test before getting in, as the water temperature can approach boiling at the source. From the parking area and pit toilet, a short trail winds through striking travertine rock formations to the **main group of natural pools**. These smaller pools are formed by rock and mud walls with natural clay travertine bases, each comfortably fitting about three people. Two additional pools are located further down the trail, offering a bit more solitude. **Clothing Optional:** Nudity is common and widely accepted at Travertine Hot Springs. Visitors should be aware and comfortable with this before arriving. **Facilities:** A **pit toilet** is available in the parking lot. There are no other facilities — no running water, no trash service, and no entrance fees. Glass containers are **not allowed** at the springs. Please pack out all trash; litter has been reported as a persistent issue at this popular site. **Camping:** Dispersed, primitive camping is permitted along the one-mile dirt road leading to the springs — look for pullouts where you can park and set up. These spots have no facilities, so come fully self-contained. **Camping is not allowed at or near the hot springs themselves.** **Crowds & Atmosphere:** Travertine is one of the most well-known free hot springs in the region, so expect moderate to high usage, especially on weekends and holidays. Despite the crowds, the expansive views and open sky make it a memorable soak. For a quieter experience, consider visiting on weekday mornings or during the off-season. **Nearby Hot Springs:** The Eastern Sierra is rich in geothermal activity. Other notable hot springs in the area include **Buckeye Hot Springs**, **Benton Hot Springs**, **Hilltop Hot Springs**, and **Wild Willy's Hot Springs**. The closest food and gas can be found in **Bridgeport**. **Wildlife & Bugs:** Expect moderate wildlife activity and moderate bug presence, particularly in warmer months. **Season:** Travertine Hot Springs can be visited year-round, but access may be limited or impossible during winter and wet conditions due to the unpaved road.