194°F8,585 ftOpenBackcountryNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (14.7 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 194°F, the source water at Hot Springs On Upper Sour 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.
Hot Springs on Upper Sour Creek emerges at 194 degrees Fahrenheit in Yellowstone's extreme backcountry at 8,585 feet elevation, nearly six miles from Grand Loop Road. The 163-degree temperature differential between spring water and ambient air creates massive steam plumes in terrain averaging just 31.5 degrees Fahrenheit annually. Access requires technical backcountry skills.
Perched at 8,585 feet on Sour Creek's upper reaches, this spring occupies high-elevation plateau country in Gallatin County. The harsh environment receives 143 inches of snow with 28 inches of total precipitation, limiting vegetation to scattered whitebark pine, alpine grasses, and willow thickets along drainages. Sour Creek flows northeast toward the Lamar River through increasingly steep terrain. Thermal features dot the creek corridor, creating biological hotspots in otherwise frozen landscape.
History of Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek
Sour Creek's name derives from sulfurous thermal water acidifying the drainage. USGS geologists surveyed these remote thermal features during Yellowstone research programs in the 1960s and 1970s, cataloging temperature and flow characteristics. The spring area has seen minimal human impact beyond scientific study, protected by extreme remoteness and National Park Service wilderness designation since 1872. Indigenous travel routes likely skirted this high country.
Reaching this spring demands expert wilderness navigation across more than nine kilometers of trailless high country from Grand Loop Road. Visits possible only during brief August-September window between snowmelt and autumn storms. Essential gear includes satellite communication device, cold-weather layers, and grizzly bear precautions. Mandatory backcountry permit required. Tower Fall Campground lies 24 kilometers away.
Is Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Backpacking adventures
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Day trips with young children
Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
12°Jan
14°Feb
22°Mar
27°Apr
35°May
45°Jun
56°Jul
56°Aug
47°Sep
32°Oct
20°Nov
11°Dec
Annual Precip: 28.2 inAnnual Snow: 143.0 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 11°F · Water 194°F · +183° contrast
JanuaryAir 12°F · Water 194°F · +182° contrast
FebruaryAir 14°F · Water 194°F · +180° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Tower Fall Campground14.7 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 Upper Sour Creek?
Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek has a water temperature of 194°F (90°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek located?
Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 8,585 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.6810°N, 110.3260°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek?
Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Grand Loop Road (5.9 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek free to visit?
Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek?
Yes, Tower Fall Campground is located nearby (14.7 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek?
The water at Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek reaches 194°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 Upper Sour Creek crowded?
Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek requires a hike or off-road travel, which naturally limits crowds. You'll generally find fewer visitors on weekdays and outside peak season.
What should I bring to Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek?
Essentials for Hot Springs On Upper Sour Creek: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sturdy footwear for the approach, 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.