Deep in The Sierras you'll find several natural hot springs that you can take a dip in at Mammoth Lakes. On the way back to LA after a long weekend of snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain, we decided to check out Wild Willy's Hot Springs. This iconic spot is the largest and most popular hot spring in Mammoth Lakes, for many reasons. Wild Willy's is the perfect place to relax after a long weekend of skiing or hiking.
Wild Willy’s hot spring is the result of the volcanic activity from thousands of years ago and one of many hot springs in the Long Valley Region. Early Native Americans and early American settlers regarded this hot spring as “sacred” ground. It is currently managed by Mono County and BLM.
It is FREE and open 24/7. You can camp in the Spring season since the springs are located on private land and even bring your dog!
How To Get There:
Head out of Mammoth Lakes town South on Highway 395. Make a left turn on Benton Crossing Road which is marked with a faded green church.
3 miles down you’ll come to the top of a slight hill and see cars parked on the side of the road. The gates to the springs should be open during the late spring-early fall, it was closed when I went in March. They close the roads during the winter, because of the weather. We had to walk 1.5 miles to get to the springs. The road is gravel and fairly small. I recommend taking a small car.
Follow the elevated boardwalk all the way until you see the hot springs. Once you get to the parking lot, you'll know you are almost there, as it is about .2 miles away.
There are three hot tubs to choose from! The one on the left is shaped like a heart and can fit up to 40 people. During COVID, everyone seemed to keep their distance and we chose a tub just to fit our group only. Most people brought a drink to have while soaking in the hot springs and the gorgeous views.
What to Bring:
We wore our swimsuits underneath our clothes and brought towels. It is super chilly when you get out so don't forget a towel, a jacket, and a change of clothes. Also, bring sandals because your feet might get stuck with muddy clay.
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