Over the weekend, the LA Times posted a great travel article about a hike to the Sespe Hot Springs in the Los Padres National Forest.

There is an excellent description of the 9.5 mile (one-way) hike into the deep, quiet canyons of the Sespe Wilderness, and of the bather’s first natural reaction to the hot spring — pain. The water there has been measured at 194 degrees Farenheit, and is rumored to be one of the the hottest springs in North America.

Nice article and well-done video up at the LA Times now.

Sespe River 009

Fall and winter are the best times to visit these springs — hiking here during the summer months can feel like you’re walking through an oven.

If you’re interested in cooler water, be sure to check out nearby Sespe Creek and Matilija Creek.

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by Casey Schreiner

Founder and Editor of Modern Hiker, Author of "Day Hiking Los Angeles." "Discovering Griffith Park," and "Cloud Spotting." Walking Meditator, Native Plant Enthusiast.