Queens Laundry
Queens Laundry flows at 192 degrees Fahrenheit—156 degrees above ambient—in Yellowstone's backcountry, requiring a 2.7-kilometer hike to reach this historically significant thermal feature at 7,213 feet elevation. The spring occupies a unique place in park history as the site of a proposed bathhouse intended for use by park visitors and potentially the First Lady. National Park Service maintains Protection Status 1 on these permanently protected lands.
The springs emerge in rolling hydrothermal terrain at moderate elevation within Yellowstone's vast interior, surrounded by lodgepole forest and thermal features characteristic of the park's volcanic landscape. The setting receives 28 inches of annual precipitation with 141 inches of snowfall annually, creating harsh winter conditions. The site sits 2.7 kilometers from the nearest vehicle access, providing more isolation than roadside thermal areas while remaining accessible to day hikers. Siliceous deposits and thermophilic organisms color the surrounding ground near the hot spring discharge.
Queens Laundry derives its name from an 1881 proposal to construct a bathhouse at the spring for use by park visitors, reportedly with designs on accommodating President Chester Arthur's party during his Yellowstone visit. Local legend suggests the "Queen" reference relates to the First Lady, though Arthur was a widower. Construction began but was never completed, and remnants of the foundation remain visible. The site represents one of Yellowstone's earliest development attempts, later abandoned as bathing in thermal features was prohibited.
Visit from June through September when the trail is snow-free and accessible. Park entrance fees apply. The 5.4-kilometer round-trip hike follows a maintained trail with minimal elevation change. No soaking is permitted under National Park Service regulations, and the 192-degree temperature would cause severe burns. Bring water, sun protection, and bear spray. Big Springs Group Area in Idaho lies 31 kilometers away with reservable group camping. Combine with visits to nearby Lower Geyser Basin features.
Is Queens Laundry worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
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...