Hot Spring
A hot spring flows at 8,231 feet elevation in Yellowstone National Park's backcountry, positioned 11.1 kilometers from any road. This remote thermal feature sits in wilderness terrain accessible only through multi-day hiking expeditions. The spring's temperature is classified as hot in historical survey records but lacks precise measurements.
The spring emerges in high-elevation wilderness on the eastern edge of the Yellowstone volcanic plateau. At 8,231 feet, the area experiences extreme alpine conditions with average annual temperatures of 32.6 degrees Fahrenheit, 27.9 inches of precipitation, and a substantial 142.3 inches of snow. The landscape transitions between dense conifer forest of lodgepole pine and subalpine fir, interspersed with open meadows and rocky outcrops. Steep terrain characterizes the surrounding topography, with headwater drainages flowing toward major river systems. The thermal feature's presence in this remote setting illustrates the extensive reach of Yellowstone's geothermal plumbing beneath the ancient caldera.
Documentation of this backcountry spring is minimal. The feature appears in the 1980 NOAA geothermal survey of Yellowstone but received limited study compared to roadside thermal areas. The park's wilderness zones remained largely unmapped until modern backcountry inventory efforts began in the mid-20th century. The area has maintained protected status since Yellowstone became the world's first national park in 1872, with wilderness recommendations ensuring continued non-development.
Access requires advanced backcountry experience and is appropriate only for self-sufficient wilderness parties. Secure required permits from Yellowstone backcountry offices before attempting the 6.9-mile approach. Plan for multi-day trips with full camping equipment, bear canisters, and navigation tools. Visit late July through early September when snowpack permits passage; prepare for freezing temperatures even in summer at this elevation. Study weather forecasts carefully as alpine storms develop rapidly. Threemile Campground 27.9 kilometers southeast on the park's eastern approach offers developed camping for trip staging, though it requires hard-sided vehicles due to grizzly bear activity.
Is Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Backpacking adventures
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Day trips with young children
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...