Remington Hot Springs Trail

Route Description for Remington Hot Springs Trail

The Remington Hot Springs are a must-visit when in the Sequoia National Forest. Soak in the natural hot springs while enjoying the view of the Kern River Valley. Unfortunately, it is rare to find the Remington Hot Springs without several soakers, so come prepared to share the pools. Those seeking a more tranquil experience are encouraged to head out in the early morning or in the evening to avoid the rush.

Due to the Springs’ popularity, there has been an increase in litter. Please respect the environment—pack out all your garbage and do not bring any glass. The custom at the Remington Hot Springs is clothing optional, though forest rangers have been known to pay the occasional visit to hand out tickets and warnings for public nudity—so exercise caution. Note these tubs will likely leave you smelling like sulfur after a soak.

Located between Bakersfield and Ridgecrest, the Remington Hot Springs is a popular wilderness escape for nearby Californians as well as tourists! Treat yourself to a spa-like experience after a day of hiking or spend the day sunning along the riverbank. On a cool day, soak in the highest pool, which is the hottest. Don’t forget to take a dip is the oldest spring—named the Miner’s Tub, which sits 15 m above the three basins.

If you arrive and the parking lot is full, you can either wait it out or join the party. Bring supplies for the day, including a swimsuit and towel, and spend a few hours along the riverbank. Socialize with like-minded adventurers and soak in the mineral basins. Unlike most trails we broadcast, this route is more about the destination than the journey there.

Setting out from the parking lot, your journey to the hot springs follows the Remington Hot Springs Trail. Though not well signposted, this path is the only one off the parking lot, and you will likely notice several other explorers heading in the same direction. Traveling northeast, the steep path will guide you through a mixed forest of fir and pines down sets of stone steps—take your time and mind your footing on the uneven terrain.

In the spring and early summer, you will be rewarded with the scene of colorful wildflowers flanking the path. Not long after your departure from the trailhead will you reach the first and the coldest pool—the Miner’s Pool. From here, continue down the trail, and you will reach the Remington Hot Springs. Admire the scene of the springs and the picturesque river below. Take a soak, and enjoy the setting before heading back up the pathway to the parking lot.

Trail Highlights

Remington Hot Springs

The Remington Hot Springs are a collection of geothermal pools above the Kern River. Built by volunteers, there are three unique stone tubs above the river and a smaller, lukewarm basin set back from the bank named the Miner’s Pool. Note the highest pool is the hottest, decreasing in temperature as it travels down to the lowest tub on the river.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Remington Hot Springs clothing optional?

The custom at the Remington Hot Springs is clothing optional.

Where are the Remington Hot Springs?

The Remington Hot Springs are located on the Kern River near Bodfish, California.

Insider Hints for Remington Hot Springs Trail

• The trail down to the hot springs is steep, so mind your footing
• Don’t forget your swimsuit and towel
• Note the custom is clothing optional
• The rocks that surround the baths are slippery
• No glass is allowed here
• Head out early for a more tranquil experience
• Pack bug spray and SPF in the summer