Have you been cooped up inside for a little too long this winter? If you’ve been feeling slightly stir crazy lately, you’ll definitely want to think about stretching your legs on this primitive hot springs trail. This short and sweet hiking trail will lead you straight to one of Northern California’s most relaxing natural hot spring pools. It’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly winter day, so plan to accomplish this soon!
There's no better way to relax and warm up after a winter adventure in the Sierras than with a visit to a natural hot spring. Buckeye Hot Springs is just the place, and you'll definitely want to plan a visit to it this winter.
Located within the Toiyabe National Forest, you'll find the hot spring located just north of Bridgeport and on the edge of Yosemite National Park. Buckeye is comprised of several pools situated next to a tranquil babbling brook and they are perfect for soaking.
To get there from Bridgeport, you'll turn west off of Route 395 and onto Twin Lakes Road. After seven miles you'll pass Doc and Al's Resort and you'll continue past Buckeye Campground. At the top of a hill is a parking area and where you'll find the hot spring's trailhead.
The access trail from the parking lot is fairly steep, so keep that in mind and be sure to wear suitable footwear. However, the trail is fairly short and manageable for most people.
It won't be long before you come along a steep wall tucked along the banks of Buckeye Creek. It's along this wall you'll find the three pools that comprise Buckeye Hot Springs. Fed by the flow of hot water that pours down the wall from the spring above, the area is incredibly peaceful.
It's almost like a warm waterfall that's pouring into the pools below. Everything from the sounds of trickling water to the sight of the creek flowing by you will instantly relax both your body and mind.
On a cold winter day, the spring's warm water is a welcome comfort. However, if the water ever gets too hot, you can always hop over the wall and jump into the cold creek. This can definitely be helpful on warmer days of the year!
Since the area is pretty accessible, you'll find that the hot spring can get pretty busy. If you're the type of person that likes to soak in peace and quiet, we recommend visiting on a weekday during the early morning. Otherwise, you may be sharing the pools with fellow soakers.
Will you be traversing this hot springs trail this winter? What’s your favorite hot springs? Let us know in the comments! If you do decide to visit Buckeye Hot Springs, you definitely can’t pass up swinging by This Little-Known Natural Hot Spring In Northern California that’s located nearby.
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