Wilbur Hot Springs were a spiritual haven for Native American tribes long before they became famous for their healing powers in 1863. Those Natives knew about the hot springs and recommended them to people who had various health problems. Congressman John Bidwell’s man was cured after a dip in the curative water. Today, the springs are among the most popular in Northern California. In this article, you’ll learn how to get the most out of your visit.
Natural mineral springs
The soaking pools at Wilbur Hot Springs are fed by geothermally heated water that cools to a comfortable 128 degrees. There are three long mineral flumes and a large, spring-fed swimming pool. Visitors can also use the dry sauna and cold plunge pool. If you want to get really wild, there is a 240-acre nature preserve nearby where you can explore and play. During the cooler months, you can also go on a hike and explore the area’s trails.
Nearly 2 hours north of Sacramento and only 1.5 hours from San Francisco, Wilbur Hot Springs is an ideal getaway. From there, take Interstate 505 to Highway 20. From Highway 20, take Bear Valley Road, a dirt road, for four miles. After crossing the historic silver bridge, you will arrive at your destination. Take the time to relax and rejuvenate your body. You will find a whole new perspective when you come here!
The healing properties of mineral springs are also continued through massage. At Wilbur Hot Springs, the spa has a professional team of massage therapists who will customize the massage to your needs. Choose from different styles, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, Thai massage, Myofascial release, and Craniosacral therapy. It’s sure to help you relax and rejuvenate!
One of the best ways to spend a day in the hot springs is to go glamping. Almost all hot springs do not have garbage service. Be respectful of other visitors. Don’t disturb them by bringing loud music or littering. And don’t forget to bring enough money – it’s hard to find ATMs in a small town. Then, bring some cash to pay for park entrance fees and parking fees. And remember to pack some snacks and water. If you need a place to stay, consider staying at a nearby hotel.
Three pools
There are three naturally heated pools at Wilbur Hot Springs, a small but beautiful resort that’s off-the-grid solar-powered and has a communal atmosphere. Located in a stunning 1800-acre nature preserve, Wilbur argues that hot mineral springs can be therapeutic, while embracing nature. The resort features Japanese-style “Fluminariums” and three pools. The spa offers massages and facials, and is open only to guests staying at the Wilbur Hot Springs resort.
The first of the three pools at Wilbur Hot Springs features the natural mineral spring water, which ranges in temperature from 100 to 109 degrees. There is also a cold plunge pool, and a temperature-regulated swimming pool. These naturally-occurring hot springs are a popular destination for people from all walks of life, but their unique mineral configuration makes them particularly therapeutic. You’ll feel refreshed after a day in the hot springs.
The second and final pool at Wilbur Hot Springs has a unique feature: a waterfall that cascades into the center of the hot springs. It’s an ADA-accessible pool. The main pool is open all year round, while the two-night minimum stays require reservations. The three pools at Wilbur Hot Springs are a relaxing destination for families, couples, and those looking for a romantic getaway. The three pools are heated by natural mineral spring water, which is said to have healing effects.
The third pool is the Fountain of Life, which erupts every 45 minutes. Water at Wilbur Hot Springs reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit and cools to 128 degrees. It is channeled into four flumes, with each flume differing slightly in temperature. In summer, the three flumes are chlorinated. The temperature of the outdoor flume varies based on the flow of water through them.
Nature preserve
The Wilbur Hot Springs Nature preserve is a haven for those seeking solitude and rest. Secluded yet convenient, this property is located only five miles from Sacramento. The grounds are flat and well maintained, and the gate is never locked. Guests can rent bicycles and enjoy their own outdoor pursuits. A visit to the hot springs is not complete without a dip in the healing waters. Here, you can get in touch with your inner spirit, make art, or dream.
The Wilbur Hot Springs Lodge is a 1915 structure with a gift shop and reception area. Inside, the open air bath house houses three flumes with mineral-rich hot water that is considered healing and medicinal. Private rooms and group sleeping areas are located in the lodge, and the Historic Hotel also has two quaint sleeping rooms with queen beds. Both are located near the bathing area, and share a half-bathroom.
The Wilbur Hot Springs Nature Preserve is the site of one of the oldest mining operations in the United States. In 1865, a mining camp was founded by the Wilburs. In 1863, a ranch near the hot springs was purchased by Ezekial Wilbur and Edwin Howell. The Wilbur Hot Sulphur Springs was opened in 1864. In 1972, Dr. Richard Louis Miller purchased the hot springs and an adjacent 1,560 acres of valley. In addition to his hotel, he built a concrete lodge for the Wilbur Hot Springs. This was the first poured concrete building in California.
The Wilbur Hot Springs nature preserve is a private oasis off the beaten path, 2.5 hours north of San Francisco. The spa area is surrounded by rolling hills and trees and offers ample opportunity for solitude. Cell phone reception and Internet access are minimal, but the town of Williams provides WiFi. While there, you may be tempted to use your laptop or smartphone. But this is the perfect opportunity to unplug and reconnect with nature.
Admission fees
If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing destination, look no further than Wilbur Hot Springs, a 1,800-acre nature reserve and natural hot springs. Infused with the culture of Japanese onsen, Wilbur is a historic resort hotel that offers a calming retreat. Whether you’re looking to relax in the hot springs or indulge in a romantic spa weekend, you’ll love Wilbur.
The geothermal springs at Wilbur are 143 degrees Fahrenheit at the surface. The pools are 104 degrees, but you can dip your toes in a cold tub. There’s a separate pool for people who want to plunge into a cold bathtub. And while you’re there, don’t forget to take advantage of the swimming pool. The water is heated in the winter and cooled during the summer. Towels are available for purchase at the resort’s store.
To get the full experience, you can book a cabin at Wilbur Ranch or book an overnight stay at the historic hotel. Reservations are required. The cabin suite features a queen bed, separate living area, and outdoor deck. If you prefer a hotel, you can stay in one of two sleeping rooms in the Wilbur Hotel. These rooms are close to the bathing area and share a half-bathroom.
Visitors to Wilbur Hot Springs can enjoy a spa using the mineral waters of the nearby Sulphur Creek. The Wilbur lodge, which was built in 1910, was rebuilt after a fire in 2014. It was reopened to the public in January 2015, commemorating the spring’s 150th anniversary. The lodge was built by wealthy San Franciscans in search of rejuvenation. This property is powered by solar panels.
Directions to wilbur hot springs
If you have never been to Wilbur Hot Springs before, it is a beautiful place that is approximately five hours from Sacramento, California. You can either drive or take a short domestic flight. Either way, you will need directions to Wilbur Hot Springs. There are several different ways to get there, but the most common is to use your car. The first option is to take Interstate 505 or Highway 80 to the Sacramento area. From there, you can take Highway 20 north to Wilbur Hot Springs, or follow Highway 16 eastward. You can also take Highway 20 north until it turns into a dirt road. Then, take Bear Valley Road for 4 miles to the destination. The last part of the road crosses an historic silver bridge.
The mineral water in Wilbur has long drawn European settlers, who were drawn to the area by the abundant copper, sulfur, and gold. A partnership was formed between Ezekial Wilbur and Edwin Howell in the early 1800s to mine copper along Sulphur Creek. However, the value of the ore dropped and the partnership was eventually dissolved. Nevertheless, Ezekial Wilbur purchased Howell’s share for $200 and decided to build a wood frame hotel. He also announced the opening of ‘Wilbur Hot Sulphur Springs’ in 1865.
During the summer months, it is possible to camp out in the campgrounds at Wilbur Hot Springs, though reservations are recommended for overnight stays. However, if you are planning to visit during the daytime, it is best to arrive during the daytime. Because of the nature of the area, you may not be able to enjoy the water unless you plan to hike. Luckily, there are many other things to do while you’re here.
