State Park Soaker

Set in an alpine meadow at 6,000 feet and surrounded by the 10,000-foot granite peaks of the Sierra, Grover Hot Springs State Park—just outside the town of Markleeville—has its very own hot springs.

The springs are a definite park draw, but there are also trails to waterfalls and lakes located within the park. Grover Hot Springs is a product of ancient lava activity.

Snow-melt meets hot rock, boiling and percolating through the earth. At the source, the water comes out at a roaring 148 degrees, but the park funnels the mineral water to a holding tank and then to the pools, one hot, one cold: You get to soak up those magic minerals at a comfortable temperature. Morning and night visitors alike will see steam rising from the baths.

The spot is popular with locals and visitors, and it can fill up fast on weekends, so take some time to explore the park’s trails. The Grover Hot Springs State Park Waterfall Trail is an easy 2-mile (round-trip) journey accessible from the parking lot (*check conditions before going, especially during or after big rains and snows). The facilities aren’t glitzy, but the beautiful setting and aroma of pine trees and mountain air is all you need to feel VIP.

Grover Hot Springs is located 4 miles west of Markleeville, CA, at the end of Hot Springs Rd. No dogs.