Steam Vent — Not a Soaking Spring
Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain is a steam vent, not a traditional hot spring. These geothermal features can be extremely dangerous — boiling water, toxic gases, and unstable ground are common hazards. Do not attempt to soak.
File:Roaring Mountain (3678663181).jpg — cc by-sa 2.0
Steam Vents at Roaring Mountain create fumarole displays in Yellowstone National Park at 7,540 feet elevation, accessible via a 233-meter walk from the Grand Loop Road where steam-heated groundwater and volcanic gases emerge from fractured rhyolite.
The thermal feature occupies a hillside of altered volcanic rock between Mammoth Hot Springs and Norris Junction where acidic vapors have converted rhyolite to white and yellow clay minerals. At 7,540 feet on Yellowstone's northern plateau, the site receives 28 inches of precipitation and 138 inches of snowfall annually. Dead standing timber surrounds active fumaroles where ground temperatures kill tree roots. The barren white slopes contrast sharply with adjacent lodgepole forest, visible from the Grand Loop Road below.
History of Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain
Roaring Mountain gained its name from intense fumarole activity in the 1880s when steam jets could be heard from considerable distance. Thermal activity has varied over subsequent decades, with current steam vents representing subdued expression of the underlying hydrothermal system. USGS monitoring documents pH 6.0 and dilute chemistry in condensed steam samples. The feature continues as a roadside thermal display along the main park circuit.
Visit May through October when the Grand Loop Road operates. Winter access requires snowcoach from Mammoth. The short walk from parking areas allows quick stops on Yellowstone circuit tours. Ground temperature and acidic conditions prevent close approach; designated viewing areas protect both visitors and thermal features. Indian Creek Campground lies 12 kilometers south for quieter camping than Mammoth or Canyon areas.
Is Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain worth visiting?
Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain is well suited for overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 27.7 in
Annual Snow: 138.2 in
Recent Temperature
70.0°F
(21.1°C)
Measured Sep 18, 2007
The water at Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain is slightly acidic (pH 6.0).
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
1 miles from West Yellowstone, WY
USGS Quad: MAMMOTH 15 · Circ 790: 215.0 · NOAA: 9.0 · AMS Map: ASHTON
What is the water temperature at Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain?
Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain is classified as hot. An exact temperature measurement has not been recorded.
Where is Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain located?
Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,540 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.7810°N, 110.7380°W.
How do I get to Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain?
Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Is Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain free to visit?
Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain?
Yes, Indian Creek Campground (Wy) is located nearby (7.3 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride. The pH is 6.0 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain?
Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain crowded?
Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain?
Essentials for Steam Vents At Roaring Mountain: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.