199°F8,271 ftOpenHikeNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (13.8 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 199°F, the source water at Hot Springs On Bog Creek 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.
This near-boiling spring emerges at 199 degrees Fahrenheit at 8,271 feet elevation in Yellowstone's remote backcountry, exceeding ambient air temperature by 167 degrees. Located 4.4 miles from Grand Loop Road, the spring requires significant hiking to reach in National Park Service-managed wilderness.
Bog Creek flows through high alpine terrain in the park's interior, where elevation exceeds 8,200 feet and steep topography defines the landscape. The setting receives 133 inches of snow annually alongside 27 inches of total precipitation, creating a harsh environment where average annual air temperature measures only 32.4 degrees Fahrenheit. Dense lodgepole pine forests transition to subalpine meadows at this elevation, with thermal features creating localized zones of bare ground and mineral deposits.
History of Hot Springs On Bog Creek
The spring's name derives from Bog Creek, which drains this thermal area in Gallatin County. Documentation of this specific feature appears in NOAA thermal spring surveys from the 1970s, though Indigenous peoples and early park explorers certainly encountered these waters. The spring remains in pristine condition under permanent National Park Service protection established when Yellowstone became the world's first national park in 1872.
Access requires a multi-mile backcountry hike from Grand Loop Road with significant elevation gain. Visit July through September when snow has melted sufficiently for safe passage. Carry bear spray, topographic maps, and layers for rapidly changing weather. Backcountry permit required. Tower Fall Campground sits 22 kilometers away as the nearest developed camping option.
Is Hot Springs On Bog Creek worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Hot Springs On Bog Creek is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
13°Jan
15°Feb
23°Mar
28°Apr
36°May
46°Jun
57°Jul
56°Aug
48°Sep
32°Oct
21°Nov
12°Dec
Annual Precip: 26.8 inAnnual Snow: 133.3 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 12°F · Water 199°F · +187° contrast
JanuaryAir 13°F · Water 199°F · +186° contrast
FebruaryAir 15°F · Water 199°F · +184° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Tower Fall Campground13.8 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...
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs On Bog Creek?
Hot Springs On Bog Creek has a water temperature of 199°F (93°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs On Bog Creek located?
Hot Springs On Bog Creek is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 8,271 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.6900°N, 110.3840°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs On Bog Creek?
Hot Springs On Bog Creek has Hike road access, with the nearest road being Grand Loop Road (4.4 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs On Bog Creek free to visit?
Hot Springs On Bog Creek has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Hot Springs On Bog Creek?
Yes, Tower Fall Campground is located nearby (13.8 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs On Bog Creek?
The water at Hot Springs On Bog Creek reaches 199°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 On Bog Creek crowded?
Hot Springs On Bog Creek sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Springs On Bog Creek?
Essentials for Hot Springs On Bog Creek: 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.