196°F8,078 ftOpenHikeNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (19.4 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 196°F, the source water at Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills 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 Sulphur Hills emerges at 196°F at 8,078 feet elevation, ranking among Yellowstone's hottest thermal features. Located 2.1 miles from the nearest road, the springs discharge water 162 degrees above ambient temperature. The National Park Service manages these permanently protected thermal features in Gallatin County.
The springs occupy high-elevation volcanic terrain at 8,078 feet, where extensive hydrothermal alteration creates the distinctive Sulphur Hills landscape. Thermal features emerge amid mineralized soils and sparse vegetation adapted to geothermal conditions. The surrounding subalpine environment experiences average temperatures of 33.7°F with 144 inches of annual snowfall. The area receives 27 inches of precipitation yearly, supporting forests that transition to thermal barrens near active vents.
History of Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills
The name describes the sulfur-rich geological environment created by intense hydrothermal activity. Documentation focuses on the springs' geological significance within Yellowstone's thermal system rather than human history. The area's elevation and remote location likely limited historical visitation, with formal documentation occurring through park thermal inventories.
The approximately 4-mile round-trip hike crosses subalpine terrain requiring moderate fitness. Late summer provides the best access window before winter snow. The springs remain dangerously hot and contact is prohibited. Threemile Campground, 31.2 km distant near the park's east entrance in Shoshone National Forest, offers the nearest camping with reservations required.
Is Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills 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 Sulphur Hills is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
14°Jan
16°Feb
24°Mar
29°Apr
36°May
47°Jun
58°Jul
58°Aug
49°Sep
35°Oct
24°Nov
14°Dec
Annual Precip: 26.9 inAnnual Snow: 144.0 in
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryAir 14°F · Water 196°F · +182° contrast
DecemberAir 14°F · Water 196°F · +182° contrast
FebruaryAir 16°F · Water 196°F · +180° contrast
January offers 44°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Threemile Campground19.4 mi away
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...
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills?
Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills has a water temperature of 196°F (91°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills located?
Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 8,078 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.5910°N, 110.3210°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills?
Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills has Hike road access (2.1 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills free to visit?
Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills?
Yes, Threemile Campground is located nearby (19.4 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills?
The water at Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills reaches 196°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 Sulphur Hills crowded?
Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills?
Essentials for Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills: 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.