192°F7,370 ftOpenHikeNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (12.9 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 192°F, the source water at Sylvan Springs 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.
Sylvan Springs reaches 192°F at 7,370 feet elevation in Yellowstone National Park, requiring a 1.7-kilometer hike from the Grand Loop Road. Recent USGS sampling documented acidic water at pH 5.8 with 118 mg/L sodium and notably high iron content at 5,050 µg/L, creating rusty-colored mineral deposits. The spring runs 157 degrees above ambient temperature.
The spring sits in lodgepole pine forest near the base of the Gallatin Mountains in Gallatin County, approximately eight miles south of Mammoth Hot Springs. The surrounding terrain consists of forested ridges with thermal ground creating openings in the canopy where acidic runoff prevents tree growth. At this elevation, annual snowfall reaches 123 inches and precipitation totals 26 inches, supporting dense conifer forest interspersed with thermal features and meadows.
History of Sylvan Springs
The sylvan name references the wooded setting rather than any specific historical event. The spring has been part of Yellowstone's documented thermal inventory since the early park surveys but remains less visited than roadside features. It continues to function in natural condition under permanent National Park Service protection established in 1872.
Plan visits for July through September when trails are snow-free and accessible. The 1.7-kilometer approach requires moderate fitness and trail-finding skills. Bring topo maps or GPS as the spring sits away from maintained trails. The high iron content creates distinctive orange and red staining that helps locate the feature. Indian Creek Campground, 20 kilometers away, provides the nearest camping option. Watch for thermal ground hazards.
Is Sylvan Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Sylvan Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
14°Jan
17°Feb
25°Mar
30°Apr
39°May
51°Jun
61°Jul
60°Aug
50°Sep
34°Oct
21°Nov
12°Dec
Annual Precip: 25.9 inAnnual Snow: 123.1 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 12°F · Water 192°F · +180° contrast
JanuaryAir 14°F · Water 192°F · +178° contrast
FebruaryAir 17°F · Water 192°F · +175° contrast
December offers 49°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
117.7°F
(47.6°C)Measured Jul 17, 2007
Water ChemistrySampled 2007-07-17
The water at Sylvan Springs is slightly acidic (pH 5.8). It is notably rich in iron (iron-rich springs may support circulation).
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...
Sylvan Springs has a water temperature of 192°F (89°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Sylvan Springs located?
Sylvan Springs is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,370 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.7020°N, 110.7670°W.
How do I get to Sylvan Springs?
Sylvan Springs has Hike road access, with the nearest road being Grand Loop Road (1.1 mi from the road).
Is Sylvan Springs free to visit?
Sylvan Springs has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Sylvan Springs?
Yes, Indian Creek Campground (Wy) is located nearby (12.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Sylvan Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 5.8 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Sylvan Springs?
The water at Sylvan Springs reaches 192°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 Sylvan Springs crowded?
Sylvan Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Sylvan Springs?
Essentials for Sylvan 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.