Dangerously Hot — Not Safe for Soaking
Morning Mist Springs reaches 205°F, far above safe soaking levels. Contact with this water will cause severe burns. Look for cooled downstream pools or view from a safe distance only.
Image via Wikidata
Morning Mist Springs discharge at 205 degrees Fahrenheit in Lower Geyser Basin's Fountain Paint Pots area, emerging 430 meters from the nearest road at 7,222 feet elevation. The superheated water runs 169 degrees above the 36-degree ambient temperature.
The springs occupy thermally active ground where mineral-laden runoff creates colorful bacterial mats. The site sits within the most extensive geyser basin in Yellowstone, surrounded by lodgepole forest receiving 140 inches of annual snow and 28 inches of total precipitation. Mud pots and fumaroles dot the broader thermal field.
History of Morning Mist Springs
The name likely derives from vapor visible during cold mornings. The feature relates to Morning Geyser, a fountain-type thermal feature in the same area that remains inactive most years. Limited documentation of historical use exists, with the area remaining undeveloped within permanent park protection.
Visit boardwalk trail from spring through fall when seasonal road access permits. The short walk crosses level ground with established pathway. Indian Creek Campground, 35.6 kilometers distant, offers the nearest established camping. Morning visits provide the best lighting for photography of steam and thermal colors.
Is Morning Mist Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Morning Mist Springs is best appreciated as a dramatic geothermal feature rather than a place to soak.
Annual Precip: 28.2 in
Annual Snow: 140.9 in
December
Air 14°F · Water 205°F · +191° contrast
January
Air 16°F · Water 205°F · +189° contrast
February
Air 18°F · Water 205°F · +187° contrast
December offers 48°F more contrast than July
Overview
Located about eight miles (13 km) south of Mammoth Hot Springs on the road to Norris, Indian Creek Campground—elevation 7,300 feet (2225 m)—sits near the base of the Gallatin Mountains and offers breathtaking views of Electric Peak. The area offers easy access to fishing and hiking. The campground is away from the main road and provides a quieter, more primitive, experience than many other locations.
For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Fi...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Indian Creek Campground (Wy)
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
16 miles from West Yellowstone, WY
USGS Quad: MADISON JUNCTION 15 · PP 492: 19.0 · Circ 790: 215.0 · NOAA: 76.0 · AMS Map: ASHTON
What is the water temperature at Morning Mist Springs?
Morning Mist Springs has a water temperature of 205°F (96°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Morning Mist Springs located?
Morning Mist Springs is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,222 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.5710°N, 110.8110°W.
How do I get to Morning Mist Springs?
Morning Mist Springs has Short Walk road access (0.3 mi from the road).
Is Morning Mist Springs free to visit?
Morning Mist Springs has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Morning Mist Springs?
Yes, Indian Creek Campground (Wy) is located nearby (22.1 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Morning Mist Springs?
The water at Morning Mist Springs reaches 205°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 Morning Mist Springs crowded?
Morning Mist Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Morning Mist Springs?
Essentials for Morning Mist Springs: 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.