Hot Creek Geological Site

Hot Creek Geological Site is a geothermal location in Mono County featuring numerous natural hot springs that emerge from rocky walls within a river gorge near Mammoth Lakes. The site contains a hatchery that relies on the geothermal warmth to support fish breeding operations.

A fish hatchery was established here in 1941 as California's first warm water fish breeding facility. The operation grew from earlier local efforts to raise trout in the region.

The creek served as a filming location for the classic western True Grit with John Wayne. This cinematic history draws visitors interested in that era of filmmaking.

A paved path connects the parking area to multiple viewing points where you can see the geothermal features up close. Interpretive signs along the way explain what you are seeing and help you understand the geological processes at work.

The water temperature can shift by more than 100 degrees Celsius in just seconds, making this one of the few places in the world with such rapid thermal swings. These extreme changes happen because hot geothermal water mixes with cold creek water at different rates.

Location: Mono County

Address: Hot Creek Hatchery Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 08:00-19:00

Website: https://fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recarea/?recid=20414

GPS coordinates: 37.66150,-118.82861

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:20