Iva Bell Hot Springs calls to anyone craving a peaceful escape in the Sierra Nevada. I love how these natural pools sit tucked away along a scenic trail near Mammoth Lakes. The journey rewards you with warm mineral waters and quiet mountain views.

Every trip to Iva Bell Hot Springs feels like a reset. The hike challenges me but the reward is always worth it. If you want to unwind in nature and soak under the open sky this spot promises a unique experience.

Overview of Iva Bell Hot Springs

Iva Bell Hot Springs offers a collection of natural soaking pools set along Fish Creek in the Sierra Nevada. I find each pool displays varying temperatures, with some reaching 104°F. Pools are situated at different elevations on a hillside, which lets me choose between warmer or cooler water.

The hot springs site sits about 13 miles from the Reds Meadow trailhead, requiring a hike with a 2,800-foot elevation gain. I pass through dense forests, rocky outcrops, and meadows filled with wildflowers in June and July. Wildlife like mule deer and marmots appear often along the trail.

Pools contain mineral-rich water that seeps from the earth. Clear views of forested slopes and distant peaks frame the site. I usually spot only a few other visitors, so the setting stays quiet and remote. No man-made structures stand near the pools, so the area remains natural and rugged.

Access to Iva Bell Hot Springs is seasonal. Snow covers the trail until late spring, limiting access from October through June. Water flow and condition of pools change based on snowmelt and rainfall.

Feature	Attribute
Location	Sierra Nevada, near Mammoth Lakes
Pools Available	Multiple, variable temperatures
Distance to Reach	13 miles from Reds Meadow trailhead
Elevation Gain	2,800 feet
Best Months	July to September
Trail Highlights	Forests, wildflowers, wildlife sightings, mountain views
Pool Setting	Natural, undeveloped, hillside

Getting to Iva Bell Hot Springs

Reaching Iva Bell Hot Springs requires careful planning and a solid hike across challenging Sierra Nevada terrain. Dedicated adventurers find the trip rewarding for its scenic rewards and isolation from developed areas.

Trail Access and Hiking Options

Trail access to Iva Bell Hot Springs starts at Reds Meadow Resort near Mammoth Lakes. I start on the Fish Creek Trail, which stretches about 13 miles one way. Expect creek crossings and rocky segments after departing from the John Muir Trail junction. Most hikers complete the round trip in two or three days to avoid rushing. I pass through mixed conifer forests, granite outcrops, and wildflower meadows, often seeing wildlife such as mule deer and marmots. Trail conditions change with the season. Snow and water levels block access from October through June most years. In summer, days last longer and trails dry out for safer hiking.

What to Pack for the Trip

Packing light and smart enhances comfort and safety for this backcountry trip. I carry the following items into the Iva Bell Hot Springs area:

• Sturdy hiking boots for rough, uneven ground
• Backpacking tent and sleeping bag for overnight stays
• Water filter or purification tablets to treat stream water
• Layered clothing to prepare for temperature swings from warm afternoons to cold nights
• High-calorie food for energy on the strenuous hike
• Bear-proof canister for food storage since bears sometimes roam the Fish Creek basin
• Detailed topographic map and GPS device for navigation
• First-aid kit and blister treatment supplies
• Sun protection, including hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Swimsuit and towel for enjoying the hot springs pools

Preparation helps me enjoy a safer, more comfortable experience at Iva Bell Hot Springs.

The Experience at Iva Bell Hot Springs

Soaking at Iva Bell Hot Springs feels peaceful and restorative. I watch steam rise from hillside pools, surrounded by quiet and the constant sound of Fish Creek. The physical challenge of the hike makes each soak feel earned. I notice profound relaxation set in within minutes in the water.

Pools and Temperature Variations

I find multiple soaking pools at Iva Bell Hot Springs, each with its own temperature and size. Pools near the creek feel cooler, around 85°F to 94°F, especially after rainfall. Higher pools on the hillside reach closer to 100°F to 104°F and keep warmth even on cool mornings. I look for clear pools, often rimmed by minerals, and choose those that suit my comfort level. Shallow pools heat up faster in the afternoon sun, while deeper pools hold heat into the evening. Temperatures vary daily based on recent weather and creek flow. I shift between pools to find the best combination of solitude and temperature.

Scenery and Surroundings

The scenery at Iva Bell Hot Springs creates a unique experience. I see Fish Creek winding below, fringed by lodgepole pines and granite boulders. In summer, wildflowers like lupine and paintbrush add color to the meadows. Wildlife appears often; I sometimes spot mule deer on the far banks and marmots sunning themselves on rocks. At dawn and dusk, sunlight filters through the trees, casting patterns over the water. I take in views up toward Mammoth Mountain’s distant ridges. No structures or noise interrupt the surroundings, allowing complete concentration on the landscape and the rhythm of the creek.

Tips for Visiting Iva Bell Hot Springs

Iva Bell Hot Springs offers a remote soaking experience and stunning views in the Sierra Nevada. Planning your visit with care helps you enjoy the natural pools and make the most of your time in this wilderness area.

Best Time to Visit

Choose summer or early fall months for visiting Iva Bell Hot Springs, since trail access remains clear of snow from late June through September. Water levels in Fish Creek drop by midsummer, making creek crossings easier and safer. Wildflower displays peak in July and August, filling the meadows along the trail. I find that weekday trips result in fewer visitors at the springs, compared to weekends when hiker traffic rises. Begin hikes early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common from July to September.

Safety and Etiquette

Follow safety guidelines and proper etiquette at Iva Bell Hot Springs, due to the remote location and delicate environment. Treat the water for drinking, as Fish Creek and the springs can carry bacteria like giardia (CDC). Use only established campsites set back from the pools and creek, and never camp directly next to the water. Keep all food stored in a bear-proof canister, since black bears are present in the area. Pack out all trash and waste, following Leave No Trace principles. Keep swimwear on in shared pools and avoid using soap or other products in the hot springs. Limit group size—no more than six people—soaking areas are small and private groups can crowd limited space. Give wildlife plenty of room and observe from a distance.

Alternatives Nearby

• Hot Creek Geological Site: I find this area 25 miles northeast of Mammoth Lakes. It features thermal springs, steam vents and a canyon through which Hot Creek flows. Boardwalks and viewing platforms allow safe observation, since direct soaking’s prohibited for safety.
• Wild Willy’s Hot Springs: I usually reach these primitive pools with a short drive and a half-mile walk from Benton Crossing Road. Multiple pools with temperatures near 100°F sit in an open valley. Scenic mountain views and easy access draw many visitors in summer.
• Sierra Hot Springs: I visit this retreat near Sierraville, around 120 miles northwest of Iva Bell. Clothing-optional pools, domes, and a meditation pond create a different atmosphere. Registration covers day use and overnight stays. The site operates year-round, unlike many remote hot springs.
• Mono Hot Springs: I drive 80 miles southwest, then hike into a rustic resort area. Soaking options include both wild and developed pools with granite boulder views. The San Joaquin River offers swimming, fishing, and camping.
• Reds Meadow Hot Springs: I stop about 9 miles from Mammoth Lakes on the way to Iva Bell. Several small, undeveloped pools lie along the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River. Trailheads and summer backpacking sites make it convenient for quick visits.
• Crab Cooker Hot Springs: I seek out this basic hot tub in a natural setting, five miles from Mammoth Lakes. Volunteers maintain a piped hot spring pool with mountain vistas. Limited parking and no shade define the site.
• Travertine Hot Springs: I visit near Bridgeport, roughly 80 miles north. Multiple mineral pools range from 90°F to 105°F, near carved limestone terraces. Open year-round, the site attracts travelers heading to or from the Eastern Sierra region.

Every journey to Iva Bell Hot Springs leaves me with a sense of awe at how untouched and peaceful the Sierra Nevada can feel. The effort to reach these pools pays off the moment I settle into the warm water and take in the wild scenery around me.

If you crave solitude and a deeper connection with nature this hidden gem offers an experience that's hard to match. I always return home feeling refreshed and grateful for the chance to slow down and soak in such a stunning corner of California.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Iva Bell Hot Springs?

Iva Bell Hot Springs is a remote natural hot springs destination located in the Sierra Nevada near Mammoth Lakes, California. It features a series of soaking pools with varying temperatures set along a scenic creek.

How do I get to Iva Bell Hot Springs?

Access is by hiking the 13-mile Fish Creek Trail from the Reds Meadow Resort, which requires significant preparation due to the rugged terrain and elevation gain.

When is the best time to visit Iva Bell Hot Springs?

The best time to visit is summer through early fall, typically July to September, when trails are clear of snow and creek crossings are safer.

Do I need to camp overnight to visit the hot springs?

Most visitors plan for an overnight trip, as the hike is strenuous and round trip hiking can take two to three days for a comfortable experience.

What should I pack for the hike to Iva Bell Hot Springs?

Essentials include sturdy hiking boots, a backpacking tent, water purification, layered clothing, high-calorie food, a bear-proof canister, navigation tools, first-aid kit, sun protection, and swimwear.

Are there any safety concerns or rules?

Yes, treat all drinking water, store food in bear-proof containers, use established campsites, follow Leave No Trace principles, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Can I bring my dog to Iva Bell Hot Springs?

Dogs are allowed in many parts of the Inyo National Forest, but check local trail and area regulations before your trip. Always keep pets under control and clean up after them.

Are the hot springs suitable for families?

Due to the strenuous hike and remote setting, Iva Bell Hot Springs is best suited for experienced hikers and older children able to handle a long trek.

Are there fees or permits required?

No special permits are required for day use, but if camping overnight in the backcountry, you’ll need a wilderness permit, especially during peak season.

Are there alternative hot springs near Mammoth Lakes?

Yes, alternatives include Hot Creek Geological Site, Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, Sierra Hot Springs, Mono Hot Springs, Reds Meadow Hot Springs, Crab Cooker, and Travertine Hot Springs.