Quick FactsOverview
About Jordan Hot Springs
Jordan Hot Springs, California is a series of natural thermal mineral springs in the Golden Trout Wilderness of the Inyo National Forest in the southern Sierra Nevada, at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet. Several springs bubble from the ground beside Ninemile Creek, with pool temperatures averaging 104 degrees Fahrenheit and the source reaching approximately 120 degrees. Kernville in the Kern River Valley is among the nearest towns with services.
The springs were designated a National Historic Landmark in 1992, recognizing centuries of use by indigenous peoples who considered them a sacred place. John Jordan, a Texan settler, arrived in 1857 during the gold rush and developed the first resort infrastructure. A resort camp operated at the springs until the Wilderness Act designation in 1978, after which the buildings were gradually dismantled. Ruins of the abandoned cabins remain near the springs today. These are among the most historically significant natural hot springs in California.
Visitors will find rock-and-sandbag pools dammed by previous soakers, plus a small concrete-lined soaking pool about two feet deep. The pools sit in dirt rather than rock, so the water tends to be muddy.
Location & Access
Getting to Jordan Hot Springs
Jordan Hot Springs is reached by a six-mile trail from Blackrock Trailhead that descends approximately 3,000 feet through the Golden Trout Wilderness. The hike down is easy to moderate, but the return ascent of 3,000 feet is moderately rigorous and most visitors plan an overnight trip rather than a single-day round trip.
From US Highway 395, take Nine Mile Canyon Road west toward Kennedy Meadows. Continue to the Blackrock Ranger Station, where you can obtain a free wilderness permit for overnight stays. Follow signs to Blackrock Trailhead. The trailhead parking lot is paved and has ample space. The road from the ranger station to the trailhead is closed in winter and typically reopens by Memorial Day, depending on snowpack.
Trail Description
The trail descends 1.8 miles to Casa Vieja Meadow, then levels through meadows where golden trout inhabit the streams. For visitors seeking hot springs near Kernville and the southern Sierra, Jordan Hot Springs is the premier backcountry thermal destination in the region. The trail passes abandoned resort cabins before reaching the springs at the confluence area of Ninemile Creek and the upper Kern River. Creek crossings may have high water during heavy snow years. Treat all water from creeks and streams before drinking.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Jordan Hot Springs
Jordan Hot Springs suits experienced backcountry hikers seeking a remote, primitive hot spring soaking experience combined with a wilderness camping trip in the southern Sierra Nevada. At 104 degrees Fahrenheit, the pools are at a genuinely comfortable soaking temperature. The six-mile approach with 3,000 feet of elevation change makes this a destination for prepared hikers rather than casual visitors.
Most visitors make this an overnight trip, camping near the springs in previously used sites with homemade fire rings. There are no maintained campgrounds or facilities. Carry all food, water treatment, and camping gear. The elevation of 6,500 feet combined with the strenuous return hike means adequate fitness and acclimatization are important.
Accessibility at Jordan Hot Springs
The springs are not wheelchair accessible. The six-mile backcountry trail with 3,000 feet of elevation change is suitable only for able-bodied hikers. No facilities exist at the springs. Those exploring natural hot springs California offers in the southern Sierra who prefer a less demanding trip should consider Kern Hot Spring (accessible via a different backcountry route) or the commercially operated Remington Hot Springs and Miracle Hot Springs along the lower Kern River, both reachable by car.
Safety & Etiquette
Jordan Hot Springs Safety Tips
Jordan Hot Springs is in remote wilderness in the southern Sierra Nevada, and visitors should be fully prepared for backcountry conditions. The source water reaches 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause burns. Always test pool temperature before entering. Cooler pools at around 94 degrees are available downstream where spring water mixes with creek water.
A Golden Trout Wilderness permit is required for overnight camping. Permits are free and available without reservation at Blackrock Ranger Station. Bear canisters are required for food storage. Black bears are present in the wilderness. Hang or store food properly. Mountain lions inhabit the area. Creek crossings can be hazardous during spring runoff.
Navigation and Weather
Carry topographic maps and a GPS device. Cell service is not available in the wilderness. Summer temperatures in the canyon can be very hot, while nights at 6,500 feet are cold. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Sierra from July through September. Lightning is a serious hazard at elevation. Start early and plan to be below ridgelines by afternoon.
Leave No Trace at Jordan Hot Springs
Pack out all trash and waste. Do not build new fire rings. Use existing campsites. The springs are a National Historic Landmark. Do not alter the pools, remove artifacts, or disturb the ruins of the historic resort cabins. Camp at least 100 feet from the springs and creek. Use existing fire rings only. Wildfire is a serious concern in the southern Sierra during dry months. Check current fire restrictions with the Forest Service before building any campfire.
