156°F7,900 ftOpenHikeNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (15.7 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 156°F, the source water at Hot Springs In Pelican Valley 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 in Pelican Valley emerges at 156°F at 7,900 feet elevation, discharging thermal water 122 degrees above ambient temperature. Located 4.5 miles from East Entrance Road, the springs occupy one of Yellowstone's premier wildlife valleys. The National Park Service manages this permanently protected thermal feature in Gallatin County.
Pelican Valley sits at 7,900 feet elevation, forming a broad glacial valley renowned for grizzly bear activity and thermal features. The surrounding landscape consists of meadows, wetlands, and forests where thermal springs create localized warm zones. Average annual temperatures reach 34.3°F with 156 inches of snowfall accumulating through winter months. The valley receives 28 inches of precipitation annually, supporting diverse vegetation and wildlife habitat along Pelican Creek.
History of Hot Springs In Pelican Valley
The springs take their name from Pelican Valley, itself named for the American white pelicans historically observed in the area. The valley has long been recognized for wildlife abundance, leading to seasonal restrictions protecting bears during critical feeding periods. Documentation focuses on the springs' ecological role within this wildlife-rich thermal landscape rather than human history.
The trail from East Entrance Road covers approximately 9 miles round-trip through grizzly country. Bear spray is mandatory, and seasonal trail closures protect bears from April through early July. Late summer and fall provide optimal access when restrictions lift. Threemile Campground, 25.3 km from the trailhead, offers the nearest camping infrastructure with reservations available.
Is Hot Springs In Pelican Valley worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Hot Springs In Pelican Valley is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
15°Jan
17°Feb
25°Mar
29°Apr
38°May
48°Jun
59°Jul
58°Aug
50°Sep
35°Oct
24°Nov
15°Dec
Annual Precip: 28.4 inAnnual Snow: 155.6 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 15°F · Water 156°F · +142° contrast
JanuaryAir 15°F · Water 156°F · +141° contrast
FebruaryAir 17°F · Water 156°F · +139° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Threemile Campground15.7 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 In Pelican Valley?
Hot Springs In Pelican Valley has a water temperature of 156°F (69°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs In Pelican Valley located?
Hot Springs In Pelican Valley is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,900 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.5980°N, 110.2360°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs In Pelican Valley?
Hot Springs In Pelican Valley has Hike road access, with the nearest road being East Entrance Road (4.5 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs In Pelican Valley free to visit?
Hot Springs In Pelican Valley has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Hot Springs In Pelican Valley?
Yes, Threemile Campground is located nearby (15.7 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs In Pelican Valley?
The water at Hot Springs In Pelican Valley reaches 156°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 In Pelican Valley crowded?
Hot Springs In Pelican Valley sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Springs In Pelican Valley?
Essentials for Hot Springs In Pelican Valley: 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.