Imagine being immersed in crystal clear water with warm steam emanating in every direction. Smooth pale rocks create a natural border for the hot spring, while lush green forests paint the landscape around you. Close your eyes and you can the splash of another group of hikers entering the spring and the birds chirping in the distance.

Sounds like a fantasy? It’s not we promise! Deep Creek Hot Springs is waiting for you after a gorgeous extended hike over!

Deep Creek Hot Springs is filled with beautiful and natural hot springs as well as a diverse amount of wildlife. This gorgeous area is a sight to see while hiking and the hot springs at the end are a great reward. 

Sounds Great! But How Do I Get There?

Great Question! Relying on our phones GPS can be nerve-wracking and can take us the weirdest ways. So knowing what you are looking for can really help ease these concerns. There are two routes offered to reach these magnificent springs. Both include a hike but the distances vary. As well as one requires a fee to park. Don’t forget to pack water, snacks, spare clothes, games you want to play in the water, and most importantly sunscreen! 

Bowen Ranch Route:

Bowen Ranch is one of the easiest entrances to the hot springs. The best address to put into the GPS is Bowen Ranch Rd, Apple Valley, Ca 92308. This route is located off of Bowen Ranch Road. A $10/person fee will be charged upon entering the trail and only cash will be accepted. The road is rocky and difficult to drive on so a sturdy car is highly recommended! The hike from Bowen ranch is about 2 miles long and is an easier hike. The way down to the springs is easy, while the way up proves to be more difficult due to the incline. So cherish your moments at the springs! Not only is Bowen Ranch lined with signs leading to the springs but the Ranch owner provides maps with clear directions to the springs.

Bradford Ridge Route:

Bradford Ridge is an alternate and free route to the springs. The best way to reach this path is off of CA-173. The best address to put into the GPS is Ca-173 Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352. There is a sign off the side of the road that marks the beginning of the trail. Many people park on the side of the road but make sure you hide the electronics left in your car.

Now for the hard part! The hike to the springs from Bradford Ridge is a 3-hour hike. It is of medium difficulty but the views are beautiful. If you are an experienced hiker or looking for a challenge then this hike is for you.

What are the Springs like?

Once you arrive at the springs there will be an ice cold river separating you and relaxation! In order to access the springs, you will need to cross the cold water which is about knee deep. Once at the springs, you will see multiple pools to relax and unwind in. It’s worth noting that, the springs is a clothing optional area, so if you have a sensitivity to this then use your best judgment whether to go or not. Many people also go there to party so the earlier you arrive at the springs the less likely there will be a lot of people around.

Deep Creek Hot Springs Rules:

The spring is only open during the day, therefore, camping is not allowed in the springs. However, many people still try to camp there and so if you decide to break this rule you will face a fine if caught! Open fires are not allowed and neither are glass containers. Please be respectful of this beautiful area and clean up after yourself so this area can be used for many more years to come!

Dangers:

The trails can possibly have rattlesnakes on them so use caution.  As with any body of water, there are always risks so please use discretion and be safe! Drinking the water is not advised. Fully submerging your head is not advised due to a rare and sometimes fatal disease called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. This occurrence is extremely rare but still proceed with caution.

Now before you second guess your decision to visit these springs the view and the hike is worth it. These dangers are very rare and only one person has ever contracted this disease.

For more information on it, you can visit this article written by The United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service that details the risks associated with the springs.

Now Get out & Get Hiking!

Whether you are just visiting for a quick day trip or trying to challenge yourself with a longer hike these springs are a great place for you to relax and enjoy nature! Be respectful of the land, pack sunscreen, and most importantly have fun!