PS - Hike: Deep Creek Hot Springs

Deep Creek Hot Springs is a popular, clothing optional, skinny-dipping spot on U.S. Forest Service land. It's got (1) hot springs, (2) a cold creek, (3) beach-like areas and rocks to hang out on.

• Trail Length: 4 miles RT
• Total Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,000 feet
• Trailhead Elevation: 4400 feet
• Difficulty Rating: Moderate Plus - plan for an arduous hike back up from the hot springs with some steep incline.
• Terrain: The trail is very narrow with steep drop-offs in some sections. There are two very steep sections. Some areas have loose sandy soil. Stream crossing may be up to 1-3 feet deep. The return hike is uphill with average slope of 8%. The area is home rattlesnakes, be careful around rock outcroppings.

Meeting Location: 8 AM at PetSmart Ramon/Crossley, Palm Springs Map click here  We will caravan to the trailhead with a stop half way.

Expected Time Of Return: 6:30 PM or later. 

Road conditions to trailhead: Deep Creek is about 100 miles (2.5 hours) from Palm Springs and the last 6 miles of driving is on a washboard dirt road where you should have a high clearance vehicle. Parking costs $10 per person (bring exact change). 

Bring: Ten Essentials (click here), face mask, water (2 to 3 liters recommended), lunch and snacks. Hat, sunscreen and layered clothing are recommended; something to sit on (a towel is good enough), water shoes for the sometimes slippery hot tubs, and $10 cash for access fee. Hiking poles may be helpful. Sturdy hiking footwear and adequate drinking water are required. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE).

Carpooling . You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. 

Photos:  Please ask before taking photos of people. Click here to see photos from some of our prior trips to Deep Creek.  

GOPS Naked Policy:  Click here. Hiking Requirements: Click here.

Do not drink the water!

The Hot Springs pools of Deep Creek contain a rare and sometimes fatal disease called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. The disease is apparently contained in contaminated soil and transmitted to the Hot Springs pools as the warm water flows through and over the soil. It is advisable not to submerge your head.

Hike Leaders:

Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or email the hike leader.

Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here 

Health Problems/Allergies:  Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.