Gnats Gnalore
Daily Summary
Day 31
Start: Big Meadow Campground (Inyo National Forest) near Tom’s Place
Finish: The Inn at Benton Hot Springs
Today’s Miles 73.2
Trip Time 06:49:23
Moving Average 39.9 mph
Speed Max 71.7 mph
Time Moving 01:57:48
Odometer 1826.8
Highlights
Ross enjoyed his morning bike ride up Rock Creek Canyon. The temperature was cool while the sun shone brightly.
We packed up and left our beautiful campsite and headed north. We drove to the lovely Convict Lake, a well-known site for weddings because of the picturesque lake framed by mountains that appear to rise right out of the lake. The national forest campground was hopping as weekenders arrived for some R&R. Next, we checked out Mammoth Lakes and stopped in at the first-class visitors center.
The drive 30 miles east to the Inn at Benton Hot Springs was very nice. We skirted Crowley Lake and drove over mountains that looked increasingly like desert terrain. Benton Hot Springs is an old town dating back to 1886 known for natural springs that deliver water to pools at a consistent 120-135 degrees. The Inn functions as a B&B with a campground in the back of the property. Each campsite has a separate and somewhat private plunge pool fed by the hot springs. We reserved site #10 for two nights. After unpacking and setting up camp, we jumped right in with beers in hand. To the east we had unobstructed views of the White Mountains.
Lowlights
Like every idyllic location, there’s always some downside. At Benton Hot Springs, biting gnats came in the early evening and swarmed our heads so much that they chased us into the teardrop early.