Sespe Hot Springs is a secluded oasis in the Southern California desert. The springs are located in the Sespe Wilderness, a remote area of the Los Padres National Forest. The area is only accessible by foot, horse, or mountain bike, making it a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The springs are situated along a creek in a canyon, and there are several pools of varying temperatures to choose from. The hottest springs are located near the source of the creek, while the cooler pools are further downstream. The springs are a popular destination for hikers and campers, and there are several primitive campsites located nearby.
Whether you’re looking to relax in a natural setting or to explore the wilderness, Sespe Hot Springs is a great destination.
Hiking Trails to Sespe Hot Spring Pools
Sespe Hot Springs is a great place to hike and camp. The hot springs are located in the Sespe Wilderness, which is part of the Los Padres National Forest. There are several different hiking trails that lead to the hot springs, and each one has its own unique features. The following is a list of some of the best hiking trails to Sespe Hot Springs:
Sespe River Trail
The last 3 miles of the trail are through a forest with tall trees. The Sespe River Trail is a 6.9-mile out-and-back hike that takes you to the Sespe Hot Springs pools. The trail is a moderate hike with some uphill sections. The pools are large and there are several small pools to choose from. The trail is located in the Los Padres National Forest in Maricopa, California. The first 3 miles of the trail are through a canyon with tall cliffs and a river. The trail ends at the Sespe Hot Springs pools, which are located next to a creek. The trailhead is located at the end of the Sespe River Road, which is a dirt road that is only accessible by high-clearance vehicles. The water is very hot, so be careful when getting in.
Alder Creek Trail
The trail is open all year round and is a great place to hike in the winter. Alder Creek Trail is a beautiful and popular trail that leads to the Sespe Hot Spring pools. The trail is mostly shaded and has a few water crossings. The trail is also dog friendly. The trailhead is located at the Alder Creek Campground. The trail is located in Maricopa, California and is a great place to hike and enjoy the scenery. The trail is about 3 miles long and is rated as moderate to difficult.
Johnson Ridge Trail
Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on a leash. The Johnson Ridge Trail is a 6.8-mile out-and-back hike that leads to the Sespe Hot Spring Pools. The trail is located in the Sespe Wilderness of the Los Padres National Forest and starts from the Piedra Blanca Trailhead. The trail is rated as difficult and is mostly used for hiking, camping, and backpacking.
The trail ends at the Sespe Hot Spring Pools, which are located in a canyon and offer views of the surrounding mountains. The trail also offers views of the Sespe Creek, the Sespe Gorge, and the Topatopa Mountains. There are several creek crossings along the trail, so be sure to bring appropriate footwear. The pools are a great place to relax and soak after a long hike. The Johnson Ridge Trail leads through a variety of terrain, including chaparral, oak woodland, and riparian habitats.
Camping
The hot springs are located in a canyon, so there are plenty of places to explore. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall, when the weather is not too hot. There are many hot springs in California, but Sespe Hot Springs is a must-see. Located in Maricopa, Sespe Hot Springs is a beautiful spot for a camping trip.
Details
There are several different pools to choose from, each with its own unique temperature and scenery. The hot springs are located in a remote area and can be accessed by hiking or horseback riding. Sespe Hot Springs is located in Maricopa, California and is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy the outdoors and relax in the hot springs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Sespe Hot Springs?
Sespe Hot Springs are natural hot springs located in Maricopa, California. The springs are situated in a remote canyon in the Los Padres National Forest and can be accessed via a 6-mile hike.
2. How hot are the springs?
The springs range in temperature from 80-105 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Are the springs open to the public?
Yes, the springs are open to the public and there is no fee to use them. However, due to their remote location, they are not well-known and can sometimes be difficult to find.
4. How do I get to the springs?
The best way to get to the springs is to hike in from the nearest trailhead. The trailhead is located at the end of Sespe Hot Springs Road, which is a dirt road off Highway 33 in Maricopa.
5. Is there camping nearby?
Yes, there is camping available at the Sespe Hot Springs Campground, which is located just a short distance from the springs.
6. Are there any other amenities at the springs?
The springs are primitive, with no developed facilities. However, there are a few picnic tables and a fire ring.
7. What should I bring?
Be sure to bring plenty of water, as there is no potable water available at the springs. You may also want to bring snacks and a lunch, as there are no food options nearby. Finally, don’t forget to pack out all of your trash.
8. Are there any rules I should know about?
The springs are located in a wilderness area, so please be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles. In addition, please be respectful of other visitors and do not bring any glass containers.
9. What is the best time of year to visit the springs?
The springs are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warmest.
10. Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are welcome at the springs. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times.
Final thoughts
Sespe Hot Springs is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxing and scenic getaway. The hot springs are located in a beautiful canyon and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The springs themselves are very clean and offer a variety of temperatures to choose from. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area, so you can explore the canyon and take in the scenery.