East Lake Hot Springs

What is the location of East Lake Hot Springs?

East Lake Hot Springs is located on the southeast edge of East Lake within the Newberry Volcanic National Monument. The hot springs lie inside the Newberry Caldera in Central Oregon, near the city of La Pine. The geographic coordinates of East Lake Hot Springs are 43°43′10.9″ N latitude and 121°12′16.6″ W longitude. The full address of the site is: Southeast edge of East Lake, Newberry Volcanic National Monument, Newberry Caldera, Central Oregon, La Pine, OR, United States. The hot springs are situated approximately 40 miles from Bend, 133 miles from Eugene, and 202 miles from Portland. The official resource for visiting information is available at Outdoor Project.

What are the access conditions of East Lake Hot Springs?

Access to East Lake Hot Springs requires a short hike of approximately 0.3 to 0.4 miles from the designated parking area near the Hot Springs boat ramp. Visitors must travel south from Bend on US-97 for 23 miles, then turn left onto Paulina East Lake Road and drive 17 miles to reach the boat ramp. From the parking area, visitors must walk west along the shoreline to reach the geothermal pools situated near the cliffs. The hot springs are not directly accessible by vehicle and are not wheelchair accessible.

What is the temperature of East Lake Hot Springs?

The temperature of East Lake Hot Springs ranges from 104°F (40°C) to 140°F (60°C) across various pools. The geothermal spring source has been reported to reach temperatures as high as 176°F (80°C). The variation in temperature depends on the proximity to the source and the degree of water mixing with lake water.

What is the mineral composition of East Lake Hot Springs?

The mineral composition of East Lake Hot Springs includes sulfur, sodium calcium silicate, and sulfate calcium silicate. These minerals emerge from geothermal activity beneath the Newberry Caldera and contribute to the distinctive chemical profile of the thermal water. The presence of sulfur in particular produces a noticeable smell in the vicinity of the pools.

What is the smell intensity at East Lake Hot Springs?

The smell intensity at East Lake Hot Springs is characterized by a heavy sulfur odor. The strength of the smell varies between pools, with some emitting a more pronounced sulfuric scent due to higher concentrations of geothermal gases near the source.

What are the pool types at East Lake Hot Springs?

The pool types at East Lake Hot Springs include natural, rock-and-log pools and sand-and-gravel pools. Many of the pools operate on a dig-your-own basis, allowing visitors to shape shallow basins along the shoreline. The pools are geothermally heated and fed directly from the spring source.

What is the depth of the pools at East Lake Hot Springs?

The depth of the pools at East Lake Hot Springs is very shallow. Most pools are described as being “as deep as your big toe,” with depth varying by individual pool and user excavation. The shallow nature of the pools reflects their shoreline location and natural formation.

How many pools are there at East Lake Hot Springs?

East Lake Hot Springs contains multiple pools. At least one clearly accessible pool exists, with additional shallow rock and sand pools scattered along the lakeshore. The number of usable pools may vary depending on lake levels and sediment conditions.

What is the clothing policy at East Lake Hot Springs?

The clothing policy at East Lake Hot Springs recommends the use of swimsuits. While the area is natural and informal, swimsuits are encouraged for comfort and public decency.

Is East Lake Hot Springs kid-friendly?

Yes, East Lake Hot Springs is kid-friendly. The shallow pools and natural setting make it accessible for families with children, provided appropriate supervision is maintained near hot water sources.

Is East Lake Hot Springs pet-friendly?

Yes, East Lake Hot Springs is pet-friendly. Dogs are allowed in the area and may be off-leash in some regions surrounding the lake and trails. Owners are responsible for pet behavior and safety.

What are the opening hours of East Lake Hot Springs?

The opening hours of East Lake Hot Springs span from sunrise to sunset during the open season. The hot springs are accessible from May through mid-October, depending on weather and road conditions.

What is the entry fee for East Lake Hot Springs?

The entry fee for East Lake Hot Springs requires a Northwest Forest Pass or a valid Day-use/Recreation Pass. These passes are necessary for access to the surrounding Newberry National Volcanic Monument area.

Is booking required at East Lake Hot Springs?

No, booking is not required at East Lake Hot Springs. The site operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not offer reservations for pool access.

What facilities are available at East Lake Hot Springs?

East Lake Hot Springs offers no direct facilities at the spring site. The general area includes forest trails, campsites, and lake access. Visitors should bring their own supplies and be prepared for primitive conditions.

What accommodations are near East Lake Hot Springs?

Accommodations near East Lake Hot Springs include East Lake Resort, RV campgrounds, tent campgrounds, and the Hot Springs Campground. These lodging options provide proximity to the lake and trailheads leading to the hot springs.

What is the parking availability at East Lake Hot Springs?

Parking at East Lake Hot Springs is available at a designated lot near the Hot Springs boat ramp. From the parking area, visitors must hike 0.3 to 0.4 miles along the shoreline to reach the pools.

What is the best season to visit East Lake Hot Springs?

The best season to visit East Lake Hot Springs is from late summer to fall, specifically between May and October. During this period, weather conditions allow for open access, and lake levels are suitable for shoreline soaking.

What attractions are near East Lake Hot Springs?

Attractions near East Lake Hot Springs include Paulina Lake, Paulina Lake Hot Springs, Big Obsidian Flow, and the Newberry Caldera. Additional nearby sites include Hole in the Ground, Pilot Butte, Rex T. Barber Veterans Memorial Bridge, Lava Cast Forest, Tumalo Falls, Paulina Peak Trail, Paulina Lakeshore Loop, Paulina Falls Trail, Big Obsidian Flow Trail, Little Crater Trail, Lava Cast Forest, Ponderosa Rim Trail, and Crater Rim Trail. These locations offer diverse geological, recreational, and scenic experiences within Central Oregon.