Travertine Hot Springs
| Travertine Hot Springs | |
|---|---|
Mono County, California[1] | |
| Coordinates | 38°14′44″N 119°12′19″W / 38.245483°N 119.205383°W |
| Elevation | 6,700 feet |
| Type | geothermal spring |
| Temperature | 180°F |
Travertine Hot Springs are a group of geothermal mineral springs located near the town of Bridgeport, California.
Geography
Travertine Hot Springs are located two miles Southeast of Bridgeport, California on several sizeable travertine terraces, overlooking views of the
Geology
According to David Risley, a geologist with the U.S. Forest Service, the hot springs gets its name from the build-up of calcium carbonate (a form of limestone) that forms the mineral terraces. In the mid-1890s, 60 tons of travertine was mined from the site to build the interior facings of San Francisco City Hall, and other buildings.[1]
History
For hundreds of years the hot mineral springs were used by local indigenous people and later, early settlers. According to archaeological records,
In the early 1900s, the first wood-lined pool for dipping sheep was built; some of the wooden planks currently at the site are the original boards.[2]
Water profile
The hot mineral water emerges from several geothermal fissures in the ground at 180°F (82°C) and are cooled to 115°–156°F as they progress through the travertine terraces.[5] Due to underground movement caused local and regional earthquakes, the temperature fluctuates.[2]
See also
References
- ^ a b c Bartell, John (16 April 2019). "The sad story behind the Travertine Hot Springs Instagram hotspot". ABC-10. Retrieved 9 April 2021.
- ^ ISBN 978-1890880095.
- ^ "California's Eastern Sierra: Hot Springs". Monocounty.org. Retrieved 1 March 2020.
- ^ "A History of Geothermal Energy in America". U.S. Department of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Retrieved 1 November 2020.
- ^ Berry, George W.; Grim, Paul J.; Ikelman, Joy A. (1980). Thermal Springs List for the United States. Boulder, Coloratdo: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. p. 12.