Geyser — Not a Soaking Spring
Excelsior Geyser Crater 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
Excelsior Geyser Crater discharges approximately 4,000 gallons per minute at 199 degrees Fahrenheit into the Firehole River, making it one of Yellowstone's most voluminous thermal features. Located just 68 meters from the Grand Loop Road in Midway Geyser Basin at 7,240 feet elevation, this massive crater represents a dormant geyser that once produced the world's largest known eruptions before transitioning to its current hot spring state.
The crater sits adjacent to the Firehole River in Midway Geyser Basin, where its enormous pool measures roughly 200 by 300 feet across. The intense blue of the deep water contrasts with orange and yellow thermophilic bacterial mats at the crater's edges. At 7,240 feet elevation, the site receives 29.5 inches of precipitation and 152 inches of snow annually. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone's largest hot spring, lies immediately adjacent, creating one of the park's most visually dramatic thermal concentrations.
History of Excelsior Geyser Crater
Yellowstone superintendent P.W. Norris named Excelsior in 1881. The geyser produced spectacular eruptions reaching 300 feet in height during the 1880s, then entered dormancy. Brief eruptive episodes recurred in 1985, but the feature has since returned to hot spring behavior. The transition from geyser to hot spring reflects the dynamic nature of Yellowstone's hydrothermal system, where subsurface conditions shift over time.
Roadside access via boardwalk from pullouts along the Grand Loop Road makes this one of Yellowstone's most accessible major thermal features. The 68-meter walk is paved and wheelchair-accessible. Visit year-round during road-open periods, though winter requires oversnow travel. Morning visits often provide dramatic steam displays in cold air. Big Springs Group Area in Island Park, Idaho, 33.5 kilometers away, offers the nearest reservable camping for groups visiting the region.
Is Excelsior Geyser Crater worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Excelsior Geyser Crater is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Annual Precip: 29.5 in
Annual Snow: 151.6 in
December
Air 16°F · Water 199°F · +183° contrast
January
Air 17°F · Water 199°F · +182° contrast
February
Air 19°F · Water 199°F · +180° contrast
December offers 47°F more contrast than July
Overview
Big Springs Group Area is located 22 miles south of West Yellowstone, Montana in beautiful Island Park, Idaho at an approximate elevation of 6,300 feet. Visitors love Island Park for its world-class fishing and outstanding scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.Recreation
Big Springs is the headwaters of Henry's Fork and is one of the largest springs in the country. Henry's Fork is considered one of the best fly-fishing streams in the nation. Fishermen cast for rainbow and brook...
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 Big Springs Grp. Area Island Park
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
19 miles from West Yellowstone, WY
USGS Quad: MADISON JUNCTION 15 · PP 492: 25.0 · Circ 790: 215.0 · NOAA: 95.0 · AMS Map: ASHTON
What is the water temperature at Excelsior Geyser Crater?
Excelsior Geyser Crater has a water temperature of 199°F (93°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Excelsior Geyser Crater located?
Excelsior Geyser Crater is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,240 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.5260°N, 110.8350°W.
How do I get to Excelsior Geyser Crater?
Excelsior Geyser Crater has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Grand Loop Road (222 ft from the road).
Is Excelsior Geyser Crater free to visit?
Excelsior Geyser Crater has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Excelsior Geyser Crater?
Yes, Big Springs Grp. Area Island Park is located nearby (20.8 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Excelsior Geyser Crater?
The water at Excelsior Geyser Crater 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 Excelsior Geyser Crater crowded?
Excelsior Geyser Crater is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Excelsior Geyser Crater?
Essentials for Excelsior Geyser Crater: 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.