Hot Creek Geological Site

HOT CREEK GEOLOGICAL SITE

Near Mammoth Lakes, CA

HOT CREEK GEOLOGICAL SITE

A BRIEF SUMMARY OF HOT CREEK GEOLOGICAL SITE

Hot Creek Geological Site is a wonderful set of natural springs found near Mammoth Lake, CA. This location (sometimes called Brees Lookout) provides an impressive view of a winding creek, boiling hot springs, and a spectacular view of the Sierra Nevadas in the distance.

This unusual place is popular for trout fishing, swimming, and sitting in the hot springs. But for a photographer, under the right conditions - this location provides a great opportunity to capture a stunning representation of the southwest in all its glory.

Location summary written by Tim Wier. Above Image by Joshua Snow

 

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DATA POINTS INCLUDED WITH HOT CREEK GEOLOGICAL SITE SUMMARY

Trail Difficulty - EASY TO MODERATE

I would rate the difficulty of this trail as a 2.5 on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being most difficult). The hike from the parking lot for the Hot Creek Site is a moderate 300yds or so. Depending on the location you choose to shoot from, the trail terrane can be a little dicey. The road from HWY 395 to the Hot Creek Site is a bit bumpy, but can easily be handled by most vehicles by slowing down.

Photography Tips

This shot is fairly straightforward. Most people will shoot from either on top of the ridge or venture down the ridge closer to the creek. There are tons of compositions - depending on where you stand. The natural composition is horizontal, but there are several fences around the creek and hot springs that need to be accounted for. You can eliminate the fences by shooting vertical.

On cool/cold mornings, the steam from the creek and hot spring will be prominent and add …

What Lens(es) Do You Need

This is primarily a medium wide-angle shot. Depending on your composition, the focal lengths range from 24-50mm.

The images above were taken at 40mm and a 14mm/30mm focal blend.

GPS Coordinates & Elevation

xx°27'5.80"N xxx°50'16.64"W

7,065 Ft. Elevation

 

Other Resources Available with Membership

  • KMZ Trail File

  • Directions

  • Best Time of Day to Shoot

  • Best Time of Year to Shoot

  • Equipment Needed

  • Permits Required

  • Direction of Shot

  • Google Maps Birds-Eye-View

  • Number of Photographers to Expect

  • Cell Service

  • Overnight Lodging/Camping

  • Nearby Restaurants

  • Area Guides and Workshops

  • Other Resources

 
 

LOCATION SUMMARIES WRITTEN BY PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Tim Wier