Secret Valley Hot Springs flows at 95 degrees Fahrenheit in Yellowstone National Park's backcountry, requiring a 1.9-kilometer hike to reach thermal features at 7,320 feet elevation with sodium-chloride chemistry showing 407 mg/L sodium and 562 mg/L chloride.
The springs emerge in volcanic terrain characteristic of Yellowstone's thermal basins, surrounded by lodgepole pine forest and thermal-altered ground. At 7,320 feet on the Yellowstone Plateau, the area receives 26 inches of precipitation annually with 123 inches of snowfall creating deep winter accumulations. The setting combines geothermal features with subalpine forest, thermal runoff channels cutting through sinter deposits and bacterial mats. The Gallatin Mountains rise to the north beyond the Madison River drainage.
History of Secret Valley Hot Springs
The name suggests historical knowledge of the thermal area before National Park Service management began in 1916. The springs exist within Yellowstone's 3,500-square-mile geothermal system, with documented USGS monitoring showing 90.7-degree Celsius discharge. Current status maintains natural conditions under permanent wilderness protection.
Plan for summer through early fall access as snowpack closes backcountry trails from October through June. The 1.9-kilometer approach requires bear safety protocols and backcountry permits. Water chemistry makes bathing inadvisable. Indian Creek Campground lies 24 kilometers away for base camping; reserve ahead for July-August visits.
Is Secret Valley Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Secret Valley Hot Springs is well suited for warm-water soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 25.9 in
Annual Snow: 123.1 in
December
Air 12°F · Water 95°F · +83° contrast
January
Air 14°F · Water 95°F · +81° contrast
February
Air 17°F · Water 95°F · +78° contrast
December offers 49°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
195.3°F
(90.7°C)
Measured Oct 15, 2007
The water at Secret Valley Hot Springs is slightly acidic (pH 6.7). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration) and chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
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
9 miles from West Yellowstone, WY
USGS Quad: (MADISON JUNCTION 15) · Circ 790: 215.0 · NOAA: 52.0 · AMS Map: ASHTON
What is the water temperature at Secret Valley Hot Springs?
Secret Valley Hot Springs has a water temperature of 95°F (35°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Secret Valley Hot Springs located?
Secret Valley Hot Springs is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,320 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.6710°N, 110.7860°W.
How do I get to Secret Valley Hot Springs?
Secret Valley Hot Springs has Hike road access (1.2 mi from the road).
Is Secret Valley Hot Springs free to visit?
Secret Valley Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Secret Valley Hot Springs?
Yes, Indian Creek Campground (Wy) is located nearby (15.1 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Secret Valley Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 6.7 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Secret Valley Hot Springs?
Secret Valley Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Secret Valley Hot Springs crowded?
Secret Valley Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Secret Valley Hot Springs?
Essentials for Secret Valley Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.