10 Tips for Natural Hot Spring / Tub Etiquette
Jamie was recently tagged in the comments section of a Facebook post highlighting the Mammoth hot springs Article I wrote. In a comment, she brought up that the increase in popularity (likely due to social media #instagramtourism and otherwise) has translated to an increase of trash, broken glass, fights and other disrespectful actions in and around the hot springs, leaving the locals to clean up after them. Not cool. I asked her to write an article on hot tub etiquette so that we are all aware of the best methods to sustain these beautiful pieces of nature for future generations to come. And here we are :)
Finding a treasure in nature brings out childlike wonder in just about everyone. When we find the steam and sulfur scent of natural hot springs, instinctively we know the warm, soft water will soothe our muscles and ease the tension from our mind, body, and spirit. Nothing can be too bad when you’re soaking in the hot tubs.
Sometimes, eager with anticipation, we’ve trekked the long dirt roads to the hot tubs to find some guy or gal inside the empty tub scrubbing the algae. “Tubs are closed for cleaning,” they grin. What can you say, but give thanks, offer some of your water or beer, and do a little scrubbing alongside them? I’ve met several people who have made it their duty, can’t call it a job since no one pays them, to travel throughout the West to clean natural hot springs with wire whisks and hours of scrubbing, repair pipes and fittings, place rocks or wooden planks around the tub so there is a nice place to dry off, and pick up the trash others have left behind.
Locals and sometimes the government built these tubs on either Bureau of Land Management or National Forest for the community’s day-use. As the tubs grow in popularity, some people have forgotten these are not campsites to claim as your own private jacuzzi. Increased emergency calls for intoxicated-induced unconsciousness, injuries, and fights have garnered the attention of the government. They could easily cement over the tubs and close the roads to get to them.
However, if we follow basic, natural hot springs etiquette, we increase everyone’s enjoyment and longevity of these natural treasures:
Do not bring glass bottles into the tubs (glass in clear water do not mix well).
Do not park, camp, or pee within 100 feet of the tubs. This will help sustain them.
Do not camp on a skyline that ruins everyone’s view but your own
Be mindful of your voice, and any noise, including playing music.
If the tubs are fed by pipes, please shut them off so that it’s not too hot for the next person to get in the water.
Always pack it in/pack it out.
Do not drain the tub (unless you plan to clean it).
Do not block others from getting to the tubs with cars or any type of force. Tubs are public, and everyone is welcome to use them.
Clothing is optional at most public/natural hot tubs.
Be chill, and enjoy the healing benefits of the water!
While hanging in the Eastern Sierra hot springs, I’ve met new friends and together we’ve watched deer skyline the ridge and come down to the lake for a drink of water. We’ve been awed by the Golden Hour that suffuses the air with shades of tangerine and rose and the Sierra Wave, lenticular clouds tinged with Alpenglow. And when the sky turns inky black, we point out the Milky Way and constellations to each other, like Orion, Canis Major, and the Swan.
These natural hot springs are a place where community comes together and we hope it can stay that way with a deep appreciation for what it takes to maintain and care for these tubs so we can enjoy them for years to come.
Jamie Della
Jamie Della is the author of Herbal Journeys column and nine books that focus on seasonal lifestyle, plant ecology, and earth-based wisdom, including The Book of Spells, on sale October 1. A student of Shamanism, Jamie creates pottery, hosts international travelers, practices healing arts, and leads rituals on earth spirituality.
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