Geyser — Not a Soaking Spring
Echinus Geyser is a geyser, not a traditional hot spring. These geothermal features can be extremely dangerous — boiling water, toxic gases, and unstable ground are common hazards. Do not attempt to soak.
Image via Wikidata
Echinus Geyser discharges water at 185 degrees Fahrenheit in Norris Geyser Basin, where USGS measurements recorded highly acidic pH of 3.4 and sulfate concentrations reaching 286 milligrams per liter. Located 156 meters from the Grand Loop Road at 7,510 feet elevation, this thermal feature provides accessible viewing of one of Yellowstone's most acidic major geysers, heating water 150 degrees above ambient temperature.
The geyser occupies the Porcelain Basin section of Norris, where acidic waters and intense thermal activity have created extensive sinter deposits and bleached, thermally altered soils. At 7,510 feet elevation, the area receives 27 inches of precipitation and 137 inches of snow annually. The surrounding landscape shows the characteristic barren, whitish terrain of acid-sulfate thermal areas, with fumaroles and steam vents creating constant atmospheric haze across the basin.
History of Echinus Geyser
Echinus takes its name from the spiny, sea-urchin-like mineral formations that once characterized its crater and surrounding deposits. The geyser has undergone periods of active eruption alternating with quieter hot spring behavior throughout recorded history, with eruption patterns shifting substantially over recent decades. Norris Basin's thermal features have been systematically documented since the 1870s, making Echinus one of the park's well-studied geysers.
Access via the Back Basin boardwalk trail, a 156-meter walk from parking areas along the Grand Loop Road. The boardwalk remains open typically from May through October, weather permitting. Indian Creek Campground, 18.6 kilometers away, provides reservable sites in a quieter setting below the Gallatin Mountains. Geyser eruptions have become less predictable in recent years, so viewing requires patience and potentially multiple visits to the basin.
Is Echinus Geyser worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Echinus Geyser is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 27.4 in
Annual Snow: 136.7 in
December
Air 13°F · Water 185°F · +172° contrast
January
Air 15°F · Water 185°F · +170° contrast
February
Air 17°F · Water 185°F · +168° contrast
December offers 48°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
173.3°F
(78.5°C)
Measured Jul 10, 2007
The water at Echinus Geyser is acidic (pH 3.4). It is notably rich in sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation), chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits), and iron (iron-rich springs may support circulation).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
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...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Indian Creek Campground (Wy)
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
5 miles from West Yellowstone, WY
USGS Quad: NORRIS JUNCTION 15 · PP 492: 11.0 · Circ 790: 215.0 · NOAA: 32.0 · AMS Map: ASHTON
What is the water temperature at Echinus Geyser?
Echinus Geyser has a water temperature of 185°F (85°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Echinus Geyser located?
Echinus Geyser is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,510 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.7220°N, 110.7010°W.
How do I get to Echinus Geyser?
Echinus Geyser has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Grand Loop Road (511 ft from the road).
Is Echinus Geyser free to visit?
Echinus Geyser has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Echinus Geyser?
Yes, Indian Creek Campground (Wy) is located nearby (11.6 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Echinus Geyser?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 3.4 (acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Echinus Geyser?
The water at Echinus Geyser reaches 185°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 Echinus Geyser crowded?
Echinus Geyser sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Echinus Geyser?
Essentials for Echinus Geyser: 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.