Muir Trail Ranch hot springs
Florence Lake, Sierra Nevada, California, United States
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- Location
- Florence Lake, Sierra Nevada, California, United States
- Water type
- iron-rich
- Temperature
- 38 °C
- pH
- 6.3
Water profile
Thermicity
Neutral
LowHigh
Soothing — neither hot nor cold, perfect balance.
Mineralisation
Bio-active
LowHigh
Rich in active gases or metals — a strong mineral character.
Buoyancy
Standard buoyancy
LowHigh
Soft water — natural, classic buoyancy.
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The Muir Trail Ranch hot spring, near Florence Lake in California's Sierra Nevada. Its iron-rich water, close to 38°C, is reached by hiking and enjoyed in an open-air pool or wild bathing spot, right along the John Muir Trail.
Insider tip — Muir Trail Ranch Hot Springs are backcountry soaking pools on the John Muir Trail in the high Sierra Nevada, accessible only by a 20-mile hike or horseback ride from the nearest trailhead near Florence Lake. The iron-rich springs seep from granite formations at around 38°C, forming small rock-lined pools beside the South Fork San Joaquin River at 2,300 meters elevation. These springs serve as a legendary resupply stop on the JMT where through-hikers can soak aching feet amid one of North America's most spectacular mountain landscapes.
Nearby
Frequently asked questions
How hot is the water?
The water is neutral here, around 38 °C — a perfect balance, neither too hot nor too cold.
What type of water is found here?
This spot features iron-rich water.
What is the best season to visit?
The most favourable period for this spot is: Toute l'année (idéal automne-hiver).