Dangerously Hot — Not Safe for Soaking
Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone reaches 205°F, far above safe soaking levels. Contact with this water will cause severe burns. Look for cooled downstream pools or view from a safe distance only.
Flat Cone Spring flows at 205 degrees Fahrenheit, among the hottest features in Yellowstone's inventory, paired with Steep Cone to form a dual-cone thermal complex that heats water 169 degrees above the 36-degree ambient air temperature.
The spring emerges at 7,206 feet elevation in Gallatin County, requiring a 1.8-mile hike into backcountry thermal areas west of the Grand Loop Road. The landscape features scattered lodgepole pine transitioning to thermally barren ground around sinter cones and steam vents. Winter brings 141 inches of snow while annual precipitation totals 28 inches, creating wet meadows between thermal clusters. The Firehole River drainage system collects runoff from surrounding thermal features across this western section of Lower Geyser Basin.
History of Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone
The descriptive names distinguish between the spring's two cone structures, one spreading laterally while the other rises steeply. Early park surveys documented these features but specific naming dates remain unclear in archival records. The National Park Service has maintained the springs under the strictest protection classification since assuming management, preserving them in unmodified natural condition.
Plan for a 3.6-mile round-trip hike across uneven terrain with thermal hazards. Visit between late June and September when trails are passable; snow lingers into early summer at this elevation. Carry adequate water as no safe drinking sources exist along the route. Stay on established paths as thermal crusts conceal scalding water. Rangers occasionally close areas due to bear activity or thermal changes.
Is Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 28.4 in
Annual Snow: 141.5 in
December
Air 14°F · Water 205°F · +191° contrast
January
Air 15°F · Water 205°F · +190° contrast
February
Air 18°F · Water 205°F · +187° contrast
December offers 49°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
17 miles from West Yellowstone, WY
USGS Quad: MADISON JUNCTION 15 · Circ 790: 215.0 · NOAA: 78.0 · AMS Map: ASHTON
What is the water temperature at Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone?
Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone has a water temperature of 205°F (96°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone located?
Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,206 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.5660°N, 110.8710°W.
How do I get to Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone?
Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone has Hike road access (1.8 mi from the road).
Is Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone free to visit?
Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone?
Yes, Big Springs Grp. Area Island Park is located nearby (19.5 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone?
The water at Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone reaches 205°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 Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone crowded?
Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone?
Essentials for Flat Cone Spring, Steep Cone: 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.