There is nothing more frustrating than going on vacation and not being prepared. Whether you didn’t bring the right shoes or forgot to pack your toothbrush, it creates quite an inconvenience. Trust me, I would know.
On my first trip to Mammoth Lakes, I’ll be honest, I didn’t do much research on the area other than the best hiking trails and horseback riding. It wasn’t until I was browsing the shops in The Village that I overheard a group mention that Mammoth Lakes is one of the best places to soak in the magical waters of natural hot springs. It didn’t take long until I was back in the car and searching the internet for the closest hot spring.
Treat Yourself: A Checklist for the Hot Springs in Mammoth Lakes
I found Wild Willy’s Hot Springs
on Benton Crossing Road and eagerly walked the boardwalk to find
several steaming pools of stunningly clear water. Paired with 360-degree
panoramas of mountains, this was truly a dreamy little oasis. Upon
arrival, I was so distracted by the scenery that it took me a moment to
realize I was vastly underprepared.
Already in the pools, a few people were in bathing suits with towels,
water bottles, and sandals nearby. I was in jeans and a flannel, and I
wasn’t about to take a dip in the hot springs while wearing denim. In
fact, I didn’t even pack a bathing suit for the trip at all. So what did
I do? I left—talk about embarrassing. It was a classic rookie mistake
I’ve vowed never to make again.
On your next trip to Mammoth Lakes, I highly recommend adding a soak in
one of the many hot springs to your to-do list, but make sure you’re
prepared! To ensure your experience is as blissful and relaxing as
possible, I’ve compiled a list of the essentials you should bring to
your hot springs soak. It will make the experience all the sweeter!
DRINKING WATER
Even if you’re just kicking back and relaxing, hydration is still
important. Bring a water bottle, and be sure to replenish your system to
feel truly rejuvenated when you finish up. Remember, friends don’t let
friends get dehydrated.
SNACKS
Make a day of your hot springs excursion and pack a few snacks for you
and your group. Out of respect for the hot springs and others trying to
enjoy their soak, be sure to get out of the water before chowing down.
SNEAKERS AND SANDALS
Proper footwear is always essential, and a visit to the hot springs is
no exception. Many of the area’s hot springs require a bit of a walk, so
sneakers are recommended as the terrain can be unpredictable. However,
once you arrive, you’ll definitely want to kick your shoes off. Have
sandals on hand to protect your feet from surrounding rocks and gravel
while you enjoy your oasis.
ALL-NATURAL SUNSCREEN
Of course, we need to protect our skin from the sun, but why all-natural
sunscreen? This is important to keep the natural hot springs clear of
chemicals and toxins usually added to generic lotions and aerosols. The
naturally occurring minerals in hot springs are incredibly beneficial,
so it’s important not to disrupt the quality of the water with unsafe
products.
TOWEL
Most hot springs are, well, hot – but feeling the cool air on your skin
when you’re finished with your soak can be unpleasant. Avoid catching a
chill, and bring a towel to dry off when you finish in the hot spring.
You’ll thank me later.
LOOSE CLOTHING
Once you’ve toweled off and are ready to go, you’ll want to throw on
some clothes before walking back. Loose clothing is a quick, easy option
that won’t get stuck on a wet bathing suit or damp skin. You’ll want to
be covered in something warm, especially on cooler days.
FLASHLIGHT
Sunset is one of the most popular times to visit the local hot springs.
The sky is changing colors, and the sun is sinking below the mountains—a
perfect backdrop for a relaxing soak. Pack a flashlight to illuminate
your path if you don't make it back to your car before dark. It’ll make
your walk much easier.
Whether you need to soothe your tired muscles after hiking to Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park, or you just need to decompress after a long day of traveling, the hot springs in Mammoth Lakes are a must for your next trip to California.
Ready to start your vacation? Our Mammoth Lakes homes are in the perfect location to experience all the area has to offer, including the hot springs. Be sure to share your travels, tag us on social media @naturalretreats and use #TravelOn