Ebro Springs

Gallatin County County, Wyoming · Near West Yellowstone
44.5880°N, 110.3410°W · 7,838 ft
136°F 7,838 ft Open Hike National Park Service Camping nearby (20.2 mi)
Ebro Springs
File:M 4411030 nw 12 060 20190805.tif — public domain

Ebro Springs discharges water at 136 degrees Fahrenheit at 7,838 feet elevation in Yellowstone's backcountry, requiring a 2-kilometer hike from the nearest road. This National Park Service-managed thermal feature heats water 102 degrees above the frigid 34-degree annual average air temperature in terrain that receives 27 inches of precipitation and 144 inches of snow annually.

The spring sits in subalpine terrain within Yellowstone's eastern sector, where lodgepole pine forest and thermal meadows characterize the landscape at elevations approaching 8,000 feet. The 2-kilometer distance from the Grand Loop Road places the spring beyond casual visitor range, in terrain where wildlife encounters are common and thermal features receive minimal human impact. Snowpack dominates the landscape from October through May at this elevation.

History of Ebro Springs

Historical documentation of Ebro Springs is minimal in park records and thermal catalogs. The name's origin is not well established in available sources. The spring's backcountry location meant it received less attention from early surveyors compared to roadside features, and it remains among Yellowstone's less-studied thermal areas despite permanent protection status.

Access via a 2-kilometer hike requires leaving from established trailheads along the Grand Loop Road. Check with rangers regarding current trail conditions and bear activity, as this area sees substantial grizzly and black bear use. July through September provides the most reliable access window when snow has melted from trails. Threemile Campground, 32.5 kilometers from the trailhead outside the park's east entrance, offers the nearest reservable camping with RV facilities.

Is Ebro Springs worth visiting?

Best for

  • Hot spring soaking
  • Overnight camping trips
  • Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Ebro Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
15°
Jan
17°
Feb
25°
Mar
29°
Apr
37°
May
48°
Jun
59°
Jul
58°
Aug
50°
Sep
35°
Oct
25°
Nov
15°
Dec
Annual Precip: 26.9 in Annual Snow: 144.0 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 15°F · Water 136°F · +121° contrast
December Air 15°F · Water 136°F · +121° contrast
February Air 17°F · Water 136°F · +119° contrast
January offers 44°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Threemile Campground 20.2 mi away

Overview Threemile Campground is located just three miles from the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, and 50 miles from the full service gateway community of Cody, in northwestern Wyoming. The area is an ideal destination for a family getaway, with many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hard-sided camp trailers and RVs are required.Recreation Great opportunities for hiking, fishing, scenic driving and wildlife viewing are available around the campground. The North Fork of the Sho...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear Nearby camping at Threemile Campground
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes Hot ground near source
References
USGS Quad: CANYON VILLAGE 15 · PP 492: 90.0 · Circ 790: 215.0 · NOAA: 73.0 · AMS Map: ASHTON
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Ebro Springs?
Ebro Springs has a water temperature of 136°F (58°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Ebro Springs located?
Ebro Springs is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,838 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.5880°N, 110.3410°W.
How do I get to Ebro Springs?
Ebro Springs has Hike road access (1.3 mi from the road).
Is Ebro Springs free to visit?
Ebro Springs has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Ebro Springs?
Yes, Threemile Campground is located nearby (20.2 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Ebro Springs?
At 136°F, Ebro Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Ebro Springs crowded?
Ebro Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Ebro Springs?
Essentials for Ebro Springs: 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.
Temperature
136°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 136°F (58°C)
Avg Air Temp 34°F
Above Ambient +102°F
Perfect soaking weather March
Access
Open
Road Access Hike
Distance to Road 1.3 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency National Park Service
Designation National Park
Unit Yellowstone National Park
Manager National Park Service
Protection 1 - Permanent protection, natural state