196°F8,398 ftOpenBackcountryNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (10.1 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 196°F, the source water at Coffee Pot Hot Springs 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.
File:Tal Unter Wolken (243662211).jpeg — cc by-sa 3.0
Coffee Pot Hot Springs flows at 196 degrees Fahrenheit in remote backcountry at 8,398 feet elevation, making it one of Yellowstone's highest thermal features. Located 11.5 kilometers from the nearest road, this National Park Service-managed spring heats water 164 degrees above the site's 32-degree annual average temperature, where extreme winter conditions bring 136 inches of snow.
The spring emerges in high subalpine terrain in Yellowstone's northeast quadrant, where timberline forest thins and open meadows dominate at this elevation. The remote setting receives 27 inches of precipitation, with the majority falling as snow during prolonged winters. Thermal runoff creates isolated patches of ice-free ground and supports specialized vegetation year-round in an otherwise harsh alpine environment.
History of Coffee Pot Hot Springs
Historical documentation of this backcountry spring is sparse compared to roadside features. The name likely derives from early backcountry travelers who noted the bubbling, percolating action of the hot water. Access has remained limited throughout the park's history, with few visitors reaching this remote location even during peak summer months when backcountry travel is feasible.
Access requires a strenuous 11.5-kilometer hike from the Grand Loop Road with significant elevation gain. Obtain a backcountry permit from park rangers before attempting the journey. Summer months from July through September offer the only practical access window, as winter conditions make the route impassable. Carry overnight gear if planning to reach the spring, as round-trip day hiking is extremely demanding. Tower Fall Campground provides frontcountry base camping 16 kilometers from the trailhead.
Is Coffee Pot Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Backpacking adventures
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Day trips with young children
Coffee Pot Hot Springs rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
13°Jan
15°Feb
23°Mar
28°Apr
36°May
46°Jun
57°Jul
56°Aug
47°Sep
31°Oct
20°Nov
11°Dec
Annual Precip: 27.4 inAnnual Snow: 135.7 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 11°F · Water 196°F · +185° contrast
JanuaryAir 13°F · Water 196°F · +183° contrast
FebruaryAir 15°F · Water 196°F · +182° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Tower Fall Campground10.1 mi away
Overview
Tower Fall Campground—elevation 6,600 feet (2012 m)—is on the north side of the steep, winding, road to Dunraven Pass. The campground is near the Tower General Store and Tower Fall. The Lamar Valley, with spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, is nearby as are several Day Hikes in the Tower and Northeast Area. Roosevelt Lodge, a short drive from the campground, offers dining and horseback riding.
For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (F...
What is the water temperature at Coffee Pot Hot Springs?
Coffee Pot Hot Springs has a water temperature of 196°F (91°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Coffee Pot Hot Springs located?
Coffee Pot Hot Springs is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 8,398 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.7560°N, 110.3080°W.
How do I get to Coffee Pot Hot Springs?
Coffee Pot Hot Springs has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Grand Loop Road (7.2 mi from the road).
Is Coffee Pot Hot Springs free to visit?
Coffee Pot Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Coffee Pot Hot Springs?
Yes, Tower Fall Campground is located nearby (10.1 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Coffee Pot Hot Springs?
The water at Coffee Pot Hot Springs reaches 196°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 Coffee Pot Hot Springs crowded?
Coffee Pot Hot Springs requires a hike or off-road travel, which naturally limits crowds. You'll generally find fewer visitors on weekdays and outside peak season.
What should I bring to Coffee Pot Hot Springs?
Essentials for Coffee Pot Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sturdy footwear for the approach, 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.
