198°F7,359 ftOpenShort WalkNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (21.9 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 198°F, the source water at Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group 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.
File:Got the Blues? Old Faithful Basin, Yellowstonee (10747948793).jpg — cc by-sa 2.0
The Rabbit Creek Group hot springs emerge at 198 degrees Fahrenheit at 7,359 feet elevation, located just 0.6 miles from Grand Loop Road via maintained trail. The near-boiling water exceeds ambient temperature by 162 degrees in terrain receiving 152 inches of annual snowfall. National Park Service manages this readily accessible thermal area in permanently protected wilderness.
Rabbit Creek flows through rolling lodgepole pine forest at relatively moderate elevation for Yellowstone's interior. The 7,359-foot setting receives 29 inches of precipitation annually, with the vast majority falling as snow between October and May. Multiple thermal features cluster along the creek, creating zones of bare sinter and mineral-stained ground visible from nearby trail systems. Thermal runoff feeds into Firehole River drainage, moderating water temperatures downstream in Gallatin County terrain.
History of Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group
Rabbit Creek derives its name from abundant wildlife populations observed during early park exploration. The thermal group appears in NOAA surveys from 1980 documenting 1,673 thermal springs across western states. These features remain in pristine condition under National Park Service stewardship established in 1872. No development or commercial use has occurred, with the area maintained as natural research baseline for geothermal studies.
Access via short trail from Grand Loop Road makes this among Yellowstone's more reachable high-temperature thermal features. Visit June through October when road access remains open. Stay on designated trails to protect fragile thermal formations and avoid dangerous scalding water. Winter skiing possible for experienced backcountry travelers. Big Springs Group Area in Idaho provides reservable camping 35 kilometers distant.
Is Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
16°Jan
18°Feb
27°Mar
32°Apr
40°May
52°Jun
62°Jul
61°Aug
52°Sep
36°Oct
24°Nov
15°Dec
Annual Precip: 29.5 inAnnual Snow: 151.6 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 15°F · Water 198°F · +183° contrast
JanuaryAir 16°F · Water 198°F · +182° contrast
FebruaryAir 18°F · Water 198°F · +180° contrast
December offers 47°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Big Springs Grp. Area Island Park21.9 mi away
Overview
Big Springs Group Area is located 22 miles south of West Yellowstone, Montana in beautiful Island Park, Idaho at an approximate elevation of 6,300 feet. Visitors love Island Park for its world-class fishing and outstanding scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.Recreation
Big Springs is the headwaters of Henry's Fork and is one of the largest springs in the country. Henry's Fork is considered one of the best fly-fishing streams in the nation. Fishermen cast for rainbow and brook...
What is the water temperature at Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group?
Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group has a water temperature of 198°F (92°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group located?
Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,359 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.5180°N, 110.8130°W.
How do I get to Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group?
Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group has Short Walk road access, with the nearest road being Grand Loop Road (0.6 mi from the road).
Is Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group free to visit?
Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group?
Yes, Big Springs Grp. Area Island Park is located nearby (21.9 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group?
The water at Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group reaches 198°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, Rabbit Creek Group crowded?
Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group?
Essentials for Hot Springs, Rabbit Creek Group: 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.
