199°F8,031 ftOpenBackcountryNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (10.9 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 199°F, the source water at Josephs Coat Springs 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.
Josephs Coat Springs discharge at 199 degrees Fahrenheit in Yellowstone's remote backcountry, requiring a 6.7-mile trek from Grand Loop Road. The superheated water emerges 166 degrees above the 33-degree ambient temperature at 8,031 feet elevation on National Park Service land.
The spring sits in high alpine terrain where annual snowfall reaches 135 inches and total precipitation measures 27 inches. The backcountry location places the feature in rugged wilderness far from developed corridors, surrounded by lodgepole pine forest and subalpine vegetation adapted to extreme cold and deep winter snow accumulation.
History of Josephs Coat Springs
The distinctive name likely references the biblical story, though documentation of naming history remains sparse. The spring's extreme remoteness meant minimal historical development or commercial use, leaving it in essentially pristine condition within Yellowstone's permanently protected boundaries.
Visit between July and September when backcountry access improves and snow recedes. Permit required for overnight wilderness camping. Carry navigation tools and prepare for sudden weather shifts at this elevation. Tower Fall Campground, 17.5 kilometers away, provides the nearest established camping.
Is Josephs Coat Springs 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
Josephs Coat Springs rewards those willing to make the trek with a more secluded soaking experience.
Monthly Climate
14°Jan
16°Feb
24°Mar
29°Apr
37°May
47°Jun
58°Jul
57°Aug
48°Sep
33°Oct
22°Nov
13°Dec
Annual Precip: 27.4 inAnnual Snow: 135.7 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 13°F · Water 199°F · +186° contrast
JanuaryAir 14°F · Water 199°F · +185° contrast
FebruaryAir 16°F · Water 199°F · +183° contrast
December offers 45°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Tower Fall Campground10.9 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 Josephs Coat Springs?
Josephs Coat Springs has a water temperature of 199°F (93°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Josephs Coat Springs located?
Josephs Coat Springs is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 8,031 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.7390°N, 110.3240°W.
How do I get to Josephs Coat Springs?
Josephs Coat Springs has Backcountry road access, with the nearest road being Grand Loop Road (6.7 mi from the road).
Is Josephs Coat Springs free to visit?
Josephs Coat Springs has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Josephs Coat Springs?
Yes, Tower Fall Campground is located nearby (10.9 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Josephs Coat Springs?
The water at Josephs Coat Springs 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 Josephs Coat Springs crowded?
Josephs Coat Springs 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 Josephs Coat Springs?
Essentials for Josephs Coat Springs: 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.