154°F6,704 ftOpenHikeNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (9.4 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 154°F, the source water at Sevenmile Hole 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:Lower Falls, Canyon Village, Yellowstone NP - panoramio.jpg — cc by 3.0
Sevenmile Hole features thermal springs at 154 degrees Fahrenheit in a Yellowstone backcountry canyon, requiring a 4.4-kilometer hike descending 600 feet to reach springs along the Yellowstone River at 6,704 feet elevation.
The springs emerge along the Yellowstone River's Grand Canyon where thermal features concentrate on steep canyon walls and riverside terraces. At 6,704 feet in a sheltered river corridor, the location receives 27 inches of precipitation and 133 inches of snowfall annually. Thermal runoff creates zones of altered rock and bacterial mats amid Douglas fir and spruce forest. The canyon's 1,000-foot walls rise to the north rim, with the river cutting through rhyolite flows and thermal-altered volcanic rock.
History of Sevenmile Hole
The name describes the trail distance from the Canyon Village area, reflecting the site's status as a recognized backcountry destination since early park visitation. The thermal springs represent one of several canyon-bottom hot spring areas accessible via steep trails. Current management maintains natural conditions with backcountry camping permits required for overnight visits.
Access from June through September after snowmelt clears high-elevation trails. The 4.4-kilometer approach includes steep switchbacks; allow 2-3 hours for descent and longer for return. Bear safety protocols apply; backcountry permit required. Water temperature makes soaking possible in mixing zones. Tower Fall Campground provides the closest developed camping 15 kilometers northeast.
Is Sevenmile Hole worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Sevenmile Hole is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
19°Jan
20°Feb
28°Mar
34°Apr
42°May
52°Jun
63°Jul
62°Aug
53°Sep
38°Oct
26°Nov
17°Dec
Annual Precip: 26.8 inAnnual Snow: 133.1 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 17°F · Water 154°F · +137° contrast
JanuaryAir 19°F · Water 154°F · +135° contrast
FebruaryAir 20°F · Water 154°F · +134° contrast
December offers 46°F more contrast than July
Nearby Camping
Tower Fall Campground9.4 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...
Sevenmile Hole has a water temperature of 154°F (68°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Sevenmile Hole located?
Sevenmile Hole is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 6,704 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.7540°N, 110.4030°W.
How do I get to Sevenmile Hole?
Sevenmile Hole has Hike road access (2.7 mi from the road).
Is Sevenmile Hole free to visit?
Sevenmile Hole has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Sevenmile Hole?
Yes, Tower Fall Campground is located nearby (9.4 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Sevenmile Hole?
The water at Sevenmile Hole reaches 154°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 Sevenmile Hole crowded?
Sevenmile Hole sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Sevenmile Hole?
Essentials for Sevenmile Hole: 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.
