Photo: 1862 David Wally’s Hot Springs Resort
The Lake Tahoe area has lots of pockets of natural hot springs, some developed and some in their natural state. If you’re a hot springs lover, we’ve put together a list of the places you will definitely want to check out. These options are all developed, though some at different levels, and places where you will get a good soak in some wonderful mineral water.
Check out the list:
A 30-minute drive from the North Shore in remote and scenic Sierraville, California, Sierra Hot Springs is both a historic landmark (complete with a hotel) and geothermal treasure.
For centuries, Native Americans have regarded this land as a sacred healing place, and for almost 150 years, this land has hosted popular hot springs resorts. The spring water here is as smooth as silk and the pools, which are open 24 hours a day, are an enjoyable, relaxing experience. Within the last several years, two of the springs have been nicely redeveloped.
The hot springs can be enjoyed in the hot pool, warm pool, meditation pool with a natural sandy bottom, and the Phoenix baths, which are seasonal pools in private rooms.
One thing to note about Sierra Springs: though children are welcome, all pools are clothing optional so just be prepared if you decide to bring your kids.
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1862 David Wally’s Hot Springs Resort
Panoramic views and close proximity to Lake Tahoe make Wally’s a popular destination for hot springs lovers. The resort’s signature hot springs have been known for their healing powers for almost 150 years, which you can enjoy in one of Wally’s five natural hot mineral springs. The pool is heated but it does not contain mineral water…just FYI. Additional amenities include dry saunas, steam rooms, a newly remodeled spa, fitness center, tennis courts, hiking and biking trails and nearby golf courses.
The resort’s one- and two-bedroom suites have full kitchens, gas fireplaces, living areas with sofa beds and balconies to enjoy the sights and wildlife.
The oldest saloon in Nevada is only a few minutes down the road in Genoa, as well as some neat, local-based restaurants. History buffs will love staying in a resort that has hosted both Theodore Roosevelt and Mark Twain, back in the day.
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This hot springs is technically in Reno, on the south side along the Mt. Rose Highway. It’s a designated historical site, and a legendary part of Nevada’s history.
Native people came here from all over the western part of this continent to use the spring’s water prior to the arrival of settlers in the early 1800’s. It was a stopping place for settlers on their way to California, a stage-coach station, an early post office, and a hospital in the 1860’s as well as a Grand Hotel. It was on the Lincoln highway, and a stop on the V&T railroad. In the 1920’s and 1930’s it was a famous healing spa.
The Steamboat Hot Springs waters are classed as “thermal waters” of volcanic origin, maintaining high heat as well as high mineral content. The temperature of the water as it reaches the earth’s surface is between 200 and 220 degrees Fahrenheit. This artesian well produces superheated steam that has been measured at 300 degrees, along with the water.
This famous mineral water contains a combination of rare minerals found nowhere else in the United States. One type of mineral found here has only been found one other location — Chile in South America.
Steamboat offers healing therapies that include:
- Massage Therapy
- Light & Color Therapy
- Sound Therapy
- Mud Wraps & Detox
- Aromatherapy
- Energy Work
- Yoga Therapy
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High in Alpine Country, about four miles from the tiny town of Markleeville, you’ll find Grover Hot Springs in the midst of a 700 acre forest.
In the 1800s, Grover Hot Springs was a popular resort. Today, the hot springs are used to fill a pool that is open to the public, affordable, fun, and enjoyed by the whole family. There is also an adjacent cool pool for those who like to take an icy plunge after soaking.
The water in the pool is a very warm 104 degrees – comparable to the warmth of a hot tub. Don’t be alarmed by the green color; the main reason the pool is green is because of the mineral deposits on the bottom of the pool. These mineral deposits are laid down on the surface of the paint by an oxidation reaction between the mineral salts in the water and the sanitizing agent (Bromine) used.
The pool’s capacity is 50 people during the winter, and 75 people during the summer season. Be aware that wait time to enter the pools can sometimes exceed 2 hours, so we definitely recommend going earlier during the busy season!
The hot springs are open every day from June through August. From September through May, the pools are closed on Wednesdays, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The pools are closed for facility and pool maintenance during two weeks in September. Pool admission is $7 per person.
