Unnamed Thermal Spring
This unnamed thermal feature maintains 192°F in Yellowstone's Norris Geyser Basin at 7,520 feet elevation, with recent USGS analysis showing 85.5°C water, pH 7.2, and extremely high chloride levels of 530 mg/L. Located 157 meters from the Norris boardwalk system, the spring runs 157 degrees above the 35°F ambient temperature in one of the park's most dynamic geothermal areas.
The spring occupies Norris Geyser Basin's northern thermal zone at 7,520 feet, surrounded by bare silica sinter and acidic runoff channels that support specialized thermophilic organisms. The basin sits in a forested valley with views toward the Gallatin Range to the northwest. Annual snowfall averages 137 inches, creating challenging winter access conditions. Norris Canyon borders the basin to the east, while lodgepole pine forest defines the surrounding landscape. The spring lies within easy walking distance of extensive boardwalk networks that protect both visitors and fragile thermal formations.
The spring remains unnamed in federal catalogs, one of hundreds of features in Norris Geyser Basin documented during systematic geothermal surveys. Norris has been recognized as Yellowstone's hottest basin since early scientific studies in the 1870s. The National Park Service maintains the area under permanent protection with no commercial development history. The basin's thermal features fluctuate significantly due to underground pressure changes and seismic activity.
Visit between late May and early October when the basin's boardwalk system is accessible. Norris experiences extreme temperature swings, with subfreezing nights possible even in summer. Stay strictly on boardwalks; water temperatures cause instant severe burns and ground is unstable. The high chloride content indicates deep circulation in the park's geothermal system. Indian Creek Campground, 18 kilometers north, provides the nearest developed camping with reservations required.
Is this spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
The water at This spring is neutral (pH 7.2). It is notably rich in sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration) and chloride (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...