Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole

Gallatin County County, Wyoming · Near West Yellowstone
44.7520°N, 110.4180°W · 7,314 ft
189°F 7,314 ft Open Hike National Park Service Camping nearby (9.6 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution

At 189°F, the source water at Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.

Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole
File:Canyon Village, Yellowstone NP - panoramio.jpg — cc by 3.0

Hot Springs at Sevenmile Hole emerges at 189°F along the Yellowstone River's dramatic canyon at 7,314 feet elevation. Located 2.1 miles from the nearest road, these springs discharge thermal water 153 degrees above ambient air temperature. The thermal features occupy National Park Service lands with permanent wilderness protection.

The springs emerge within the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where volcanic geology creates spectacular thermal activity along the river corridor. At 7,314 feet elevation, the site sits in steep canyon terrain where the Yellowstone River has carved through ancient volcanic deposits. The surrounding landscape consists of canyon walls, thermal basins, and coniferous forests. Annual conditions include 133 inches of snowfall and 27 inches of precipitation, with average temperatures of 35.8°F.

History of Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole

The name references the approximate distance hikers must travel to reach this canyon location, reflecting the site's identity as a hiking destination rather than historical naming traditions. Park records document these springs as significant thermal features along one of Yellowstone's most popular backcountry trails, though specific development history remains limited in available documentation.

The hike from Glacial Boulder trailhead covers roughly 10 miles round-trip with significant elevation change into the canyon. Summer and early fall provide optimal conditions before winter closures. Thermal waters remain dangerously hot and soaking is prohibited. Tower Fall Campground, 15.5 km away, offers reservable sites as a basecamp for day hiking to the springs.

Is Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole worth visiting?

Best for

  • Observing powerful hot springs
  • Overnight camping trips
  • Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast

Not ideal for

  • Casual soaking
Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
17°
Jan
18°
Feb
26°
Mar
31°
Apr
40°
May
50°
Jun
61°
Jul
60°
Aug
51°
Sep
35°
Oct
24°
Nov
15°
Dec
Annual Precip: 26.8 in Annual Snow: 133.1 in
Best Time to Visit
December Air 15°F · Water 189°F · +174° contrast
January Air 17°F · Water 189°F · +172° contrast
February Air 18°F · Water 189°F · +171° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Tower Fall Campground 9.6 mi away

Overview Tower Fall Campground—elevation 6,600 feet (2012 m)—is on the north side of the steep, winding, road to Dunraven Pass. The campground is near the Tower General Store and Tower Fall. The Lamar Valley, with spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, is nearby as are several Day Hikes in the Tower and Northeast Area. Roosevelt Lodge, a short drive from the campground, offers dining and horseback riding. For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (F...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
What to Bring
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear Nearby camping at Tower Fall Campground
Trash bag Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes Hot ground near source
References
USGS Quad: TOWER JUNCTION 15 · PP 492: 52.0 · Circ 790: 215.0 · NOAA: 18.0 · AMS Map: ASHTON
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole?
Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole has a water temperature of 189°F (87°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole located?
Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,314 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.7520°N, 110.4180°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole?
Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole has Hike road access (2.1 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole free to visit?
Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole?
Yes, Tower Fall Campground is located nearby (9.6 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole?
The water at Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole reaches 189°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 Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole crowded?
Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole?
Essentials for Hot Springs At Sevenmile Hole: 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.
Temperature
189°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 189°F (87°C)
Avg Air Temp 36°F
Above Ambient +153°F
Perfect soaking weather March
Access
Open
Road Access Hike
Distance to Road 2.1 mi
Land
Ownership Federal
Agency National Park Service
Designation National Park
Unit Yellowstone National Park
Manager National Park Service
Protection 1 - Permanent protection, natural state