I visited Harbin several times and had an OK time but I notice I don't seem to be returning. I found the place unreasonably crowded and with a not-especially-warm vibe -- the place felt too urban and detached. But then I'm no longer in my 30s and I'm not from the Bay Area, which probably says it all.

A nice compromise is a soak at Sierra Hot Springs, Harbin's scruffy little sibling about 30 miles north of Truckee. It's developed, but modestly, and there are also little 1-2 person scattered around the property. There's never a crowd and the setting on the westermost edge of the Great Basin is beautifully spare. Enjoy!

jim

Harbin is definitely a people place, more of a self contained community with a lot of stuff going on. But there's also a lot of beautiful land there to get some solitude if you like. I'd say try another place if you're not comfortable with a lot of folks around. Sierra is much more low key, also there's Benton Hot Springs near the Nevada border which has a small bed and breakfast and is out in the middle of nowhere.

Harbin does have more of a "scene" than most other hot springs. I'm not going into any details; suffice it to say that I go to Harbin to be on personal retreat, usually with one friend, eat the food I like, do some reading, and soak in the oh-so-very-fine water. Orr Hot Springs is my personal favorite, but if it's magma-hot and winter-cold baths you're looking for, Harbin just can't be beat. I always prefer to go to Harbin...Orr also for that matter...during the off season. Less people, less crowding in the kitchen, discounted seasonal rates, gotta love it. If the idea of development is a downer for you, Harbin is just about as developed a community as you can imagine, outside of a McSpa in Calistoga.

Harbin sucks.

I went to harbin recently. I was wondering the same thing as you. Im glad we checked it out, but I didnt fall in love. Id rather drive the extra distance and go to orr.

The land is beautiful, that was the best part for me.
THe new-age-iness was too over the top, and I like new-age-iness. Def. picked up on the hey baby vibe, though it seemed exclusive to one area, by the very hot pool. I stayed in the heart shaped pool, as there was no action there. It was also on a thur-friday so it wasnt in full swing. Though watsu was in full force.

They didn't mention when we booked that they would be using a bulldozer and sledgehammer in the pool area. That was also over the top. We got a good laugh from it, as it was like a bad movie.

Overall, I dont think Id go back(unless there was a special reason). I can spend my money and time and go to one of faves like orr or sierra. For bigger adventure, mono. I liked wilbur more than harbin, but i didnt fall in love with wilbur either.