Quick FactsOverview
About Morton's Warm Springs
Morton's Warm Springs, California is a seasonal natural geothermal pool facility in the Sonoma Valley near Glen Ellen in Sonoma County, in the region known as the Valley of the Moon. The spring-fed warm pools are maintained at 90 to 94 degrees Fahrenheit with natural, untreated geothermal water. The facility is open from May through September, with day visit reservations required for every guest. Glen Ellen, a small community in the heart of Sonoma wine country, is the nearest town.
Morton's Warm Springs has operated as a family recreation destination for decades, combining natural geothermal soaking with picnic areas, group event spaces, and the on-site Cafe 108. The facility accommodates groups from 20 to 400 guests for private events. A creek restoration project completed in partnership with the Sonoma Ecology Center has restored habitat along the creek running through the property, including gravel beds for steelhead trout spawning. Season passes are available for regular visitors.
The pools are outdoors in a landscaped setting with shade trees. A separate kiddie pool is available for young children. This is one of the few Sonoma Valley thermal features open to the public for recreational swimming.
Location & Access
Getting to Morton's Warm Springs
Morton's Warm Springs is located at 1651 Warm Springs Road in Glen Ellen, in the heart of the Sonoma Valley approximately one hour north of San Francisco. The facility has on-site parking and is easily accessible by car from Highway 12 (Sonoma Highway), which runs through the valley.
From San Francisco, drive north across the Golden Gate Bridge on US-101, exit onto Highway 37 east, then follow Highway 121 and Highway 12 north through Sonoma to Glen Ellen, approximately 55 miles total. From Santa Rosa, drive south on Highway 12 for roughly 15 miles. The facility is well-signed on Warm Springs Road off the main highway.
Reservations and Season
All-inclusive day visit reservations are required for every person, even those not planning to swim. Advance online reservations are recommended as the facility often sells out several days ahead for weekends and holidays. The season runs from early May through late September. For visitors seeking hot springs near Sonoma, Morton's is the most accessible thermal pool in the valley. Other nearby options include the historic resort springs of Calistoga (approximately 30 miles north) with temperatures up to 104 degrees and full resort amenities including mud baths and mineral pools.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Morton's Warm Springs
Morton's Warm Springs suits families, groups, and individuals seeking a relaxing day at a natural geothermal pool in a beautiful wine country setting. At 90 to 94 degrees Fahrenheit, the pools are warm and comfortable rather than intensely hot, making them ideal for extended soaking and swimming on warm Sonoma Valley days. The family-friendly atmosphere, kiddie pool, and picnic areas make this especially suitable for visitors with children.
The facility accommodates private events and group gatherings from 20 to 400 guests. Pool hours are 10am to 5pm, with the site closing at 6pm. Cafe 108 serves food and drinks during operating hours. The seasonal schedule (May through September) means planning is required, and the most popular dates sell out in advance.
Accessibility at Morton's Warm Springs
Contact the facility directly for specific accessibility information. The grounds are landscaped with picnic areas and parking. For visitors seeking a hot spring resort California offers in the North Bay wine country region, Morton's provides a unique combination of natural geothermal water, outdoor recreation, and Sonoma Valley charm within easy reach of San Francisco. The setting amid Sonoma Valley vineyards and oak-studded hills adds to the appeal, particularly for visitors combining a pool day with wine tasting or hiking in the area.
Safety & Etiquette
Morton's Warm Springs Safety Tips
Morton's Warm Springs is a managed facility with staff on-site, making it generally safe for all visitors. The pool temperature of 90 to 94 degrees Fahrenheit poses no scalding risk. Standard pool safety applies. Supervise children at all times near the water. A separate kiddie pool is available for younger children.
All visitors must have a day visit reservation. Walk-ins may be turned away if the facility is at capacity. Arrive during posted hours (10am to 5pm for pools, site closes at 6pm). Season pass holders have guaranteed admission without a reservation.
Sun and Heat Awareness
Sonoma Valley summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. Shade is available under trees and at picnic areas but the pool deck can be hot underfoot. The combination of warm pool water and hot air temperature means staying hydrated is important throughout your visit.
Facility Guidelines
Swimsuits are required. No glass containers in the pool area. Follow all posted rules and staff instructions. The facility is alcohol-friendly with Cafe 108 on-site, but responsible consumption is expected. Respect the creek restoration areas and native plantings on the property, which support steelhead trout habitat and local ecology. The facility has clear posted rules, and staff are available throughout the day to assist with any concerns. Lockers and changing areas are provided for guest convenience. The on-site cafe means you do not need to leave the property for food or drinks.
