Hot, On Lamar River
A warm spring emerges along the Lamar River at 6,777 feet elevation in Yellowstone's renowned wildlife corridor, approximately two miles from Northeast Entrance Road via trail. Temperature data appears as 'W' in historical records, indicating warm but unmeasured discharge. The spring sits in prime grizzly bear, wolf, bison, and elk habitat managed by National Park Service.
The Lamar River carves through broad valleys and sagebrush meadows in Park County, creating exceptional wildlife viewing terrain. At 6,777 feet, this represents relatively low elevation for Yellowstone, supporting diverse vegetation including Douglas fir, aspen, cottonwood, and extensive grasslands. The valley receives 131 inches of snow with 27 inches of total precipitation annually, and average annual temperature of 37.2 degrees Fahrenheit moderates compared to high-elevation zones. Thermal features along the river create ice-free zones critical for winter wildlife survival.
The Lamar River valley served as important travel corridor for Indigenous peoples and later for early trappers and explorers. This spring appears in systematic NOAA thermal spring documentation from 1980 but lacks extensive historical records. The Lamar Valley gained recognition as premier wildlife habitat following wolf reintroduction in 1995, with thermal features providing essential winter habitat for prey species. The spring remains unmodified under National Park Service protection since 1872.
Visit May through October when Northeast Entrance Road provides vehicle access. The two-mile trail from road to spring traverses prime grizzly bear territory, requiring bear spray, noise-making, and vigilance. Dawn and dusk offer exceptional wildlife viewing but increase predator encounter risk. Slough Creek Campground provides reservable camping 16 kilometers away. Bring binoculars for wildlife observation from safe distances.
Is Hot, On Lamar River worth visiting?
Best for
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Slough Creek is near some of the best wildlife watching opportunities in the park. The campground is at the end of a two mile dirt road, and best suited for tents and small RVs. There are plenty of hiking and fishing opportunities in the area, including the Slough Creek Trail which begins nearby. Nighttime offers a quiet, unimpeded view of the stars and the possibility of hearing wolves howl. Elevation: 6,250 ft (1905 m). Recreation There are many opportunities for recreation in the...