Sierra Hot Springs Resort & Retreat Center

Located on the edges of the majestic Tahoe National Forest, a 700-acre expanse of protected land lies the Sierra Hot Springs Resort and Retreat Center. Reflecting the pristine beauty of the surrounding forest, this area has long been a popular hot-spring destination, boasting over 150 years of healing and meditation opportunities.

Only 1 hour from major Tahoe ski resorts and 1 mile from downtown Sierraville, the Sierra Hot Springs is host to a variety of activities and workshops.

You can soak in one of their many hot and cold pools, enjoy seasonal organic meals at the Philosophy Café and explore the area on foot, bike, or cross-country skis. The power of this renowned healing center will reinvigorate your mind, relax your body and recharge your spirit.

The Hot Springs and Pools

Sierra Hot Springs Resort and Retreat Center California — Sierra Hot Springs Resort in California. Photo: facebook.com/sierrahotsprings

The Temple Dome Area is the most popular location at the Sierra Hot Springs and for good reason. The stained-glass panels of the geodesic roof allow colorful rays of light to dance across the water’s surface, reflecting off the statues and stone within the large room.

The hot pool inside the dome stays between 105º-110º Fahrenheit and is book-ended by two cold baths. The redwood panels forming the dome above create a nurturing aesthetic, and the skylights place throughout allow glimpses of the stars above.

Directly outside is the warm pool (98º-100ºF), and a beautiful sun deck that overlooks the natural forest. Both the warm pool and the meditation pool (98º-100ºF) are located outside, and from them, you can gaze out at the lush alpine valley or lay under the stars at night.

There are also season pools located inside private rooms, where the water is drained and refilled, fresh for every bather. The Phoenix Baths (85º-90ºF) are within the spa area, making it easy to move from soak to massage and back again.

Lodging and Camping

Sierra Hot Springs Main Lodge California — Main Lodge at Sierra Hot Springs. Photo: facebook.com/sierrahotsprings

Featuring 5 private rooms, the Main Lodge was built in the 1870s and gives you access to a communal kitchen, lounge, and a small store. This is also where you will find the massage rooms and the Philosophy Café, located downstairs and offering a fine-tuned menu of seasonal, organic meals.

If you are staying off-site, you can find lodging at the Globe Hotel, located one mile away in downtown Sierraville. This beautiful and newly renovated hotel is only a 1-minute drive from the pools and offers many amenities within itself.

There are also camping options at the Sierra Hot Springs, no reservation is required.

Check prices, availability or book Sierra Hot Springs Resort

A Variety of Workshops and Activities

Sierra Hot Springs Dome Deck California — Dome deck at Sierra Hot Springs. Photo: sierrahotsprings.org

Creating a communal atmosphere are the many workshops and activities that the Sierra Hot Springs play host to. From personal growth seminars to yoga and movement classes, to open mic show-and-tells, there is plenty to keep your mind and body engaged.

Every new moon they have drum circles to welcome the lunar change. There are Tantra workshops on Tuesdays and open mic nights on the last Tuesday of every month. On Sunday they offer a free yoga class, led by a revolving door of experienced practitioners.

Thanks to its close proximity to the breathtaking Tahoe National Forest, you can spend your afternoons roaming throughout the massive trees. Hiking and biking are popular ways to spend the day and during the winter season, cross-country skiing takes the lead.

You will also find many different massage modalities to choose from. From the more common Shiatsu and Swedish to their ‘Signature Treatments’, involving essential oils and flower essence. Their staff is certified and well-trained to bring you to the deepest levels of relaxation and healing.