199°F7,480 ftOpenShort WalkNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (10.7 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 199°F, the source water at Cistern Spring is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
Image via Wikidata
Cistern Spring discharges water at 199 degrees Fahrenheit in the Norris Geyser Basin, where USGS measurements recorded highly acidic pH of 3.6 and chloride concentrations reaching 532 milligrams per liter. This National Park Service-managed thermal feature sits at 7,480 feet elevation, requiring a 539-meter walk from the Grand Loop Road into one of Yellowstone's most dynamic and chemically extreme geothermal areas.
The spring occupies the Back Basin section of Norris, where sparse vegetation and bleached, thermally altered soils reflect the acidic, mineral-rich waters that characterize this basin. Elevation at 7,480 feet brings 27 inches of precipitation and 137 inches of snow annually. The surrounding terrain shows evidence of ongoing hydrothermal activity, with fumaroles, mud pots, and other springs creating a constantly steaming landscape.
History of Cistern Spring
The name describes the spring's pool configuration, which resembles a large cistern or reservoir. Norris Geyser Basin has undergone periodic thermal changes throughout recorded history, with individual features shifting between active and dormant states. Cistern Spring has maintained relatively consistent flow patterns since systematic monitoring began, though the basin as a whole remains one of Yellowstone's most geologically restless areas.
Access the spring via boardwalk trails through Norris Back Basin, which remain open during summer months typically from May through October. The 539-meter walk crosses thermally active ground where staying on boardwalks is mandatory for safety. Indian Creek Campground, 17.3 kilometers away, provides the nearest reservable camping. Afternoon visits often offer better visibility as morning fog from thermal features dissipates.
Is Cistern Spring worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Cistern Spring is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
15°Jan
17°Feb
25°Mar
31°Apr
39°May
50°Jun
61°Jul
60°Aug
50°Sep
34°Oct
22°Nov
14°Dec
Annual Precip: 27.4 inAnnual Snow: 136.7 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 14°F · Water 199°F · +186° contrast
JanuaryAir 15°F · Water 199°F · +184° contrast
FebruaryAir 17°F · Water 199°F · +182° contrast
December offers 48°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
188.6°F
(87.0°C)Measured Jul 13, 2007
Water ChemistrySampled 2007-07-13
The water at Cistern Spring is acidic (pH 3.6). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration) and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Located about eight miles (13 km) south of Mammoth Hot Springs on the road to Norris, Indian Creek Campground—elevation 7,300 feet (2225 m)—sits near the base of the Gallatin Mountains and offers breathtaking views of Electric Peak. The area offers easy access to fishing and hiking. The campground is away from the main road and provides a quieter, more primitive, experience than many other locations.
For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Fi...
Cistern Spring has a water temperature of 199°F (93°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Cistern Spring located?
Cistern Spring is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,480 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.7330°N, 110.7030°W.
How do I get to Cistern Spring?
Cistern Spring has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Grand Loop Road (0.3 mi from the road).
Is Cistern Spring free to visit?
Cistern Spring has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Cistern Spring?
Yes, Indian Creek Campground (Wy) is located nearby (10.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Cistern Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 3.6 (acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Cistern Spring?
The water at Cistern Spring reaches 199°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Cistern Spring crowded?
Cistern Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Cistern Spring?
Essentials for Cistern Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.
