Vermilion Springs
Vermilion Springs emerges at 140°F at 7,815 feet elevation in Yellowstone National Park, requiring a 2.5-kilometer hike from roads in Gallatin County. The spring runs 106 degrees above ambient temperature in an environment averaging 34°F annually, with the vermilion name suggesting red or orange mineral coloration from iron oxide deposits around the discharge point.
The spring sits in mixed lodgepole pine and subalpine fir forest where annual snowfall reaches 144 inches and precipitation totals 27 inches. The surrounding terrain consists of forested ridges with thermal clearings where acidic or mineral-rich runoff prevents tree establishment. The elevation places this spring in Yellowstone's severe climate zone, with long winters and brief summers. Thermal runoff creates distinctive colored channels through the forest floor.
The vermilion name derives from the reddish mineral deposits characteristic of iron-rich thermal features, though specific naming history is undocumented. The spring has been part of Yellowstone's thermal inventory since early park surveys but receives minimal visitation due to its backcountry location. It remains in natural condition under National Park Service stewardship.
Visit between July and mid-September when the 2.5-kilometer approach is reliably snow-free. The hike requires moderate fitness and navigation skills; bring topographic maps or GPS as the spring sits away from maintained trails. The vermilion coloration provides a visual cue for locating the feature. Threemile Campground, 30 kilometers distant outside park boundaries, offers the nearest developed camping. Prepare for afternoon thunderstorms in summer and carry rain gear.
Is Vermilion Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
Overview Threemile Campground is located just three miles from the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, and 50 miles from the full service gateway community of Cody, in northwestern Wyoming. The area is an ideal destination for a family getaway, with many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hard-sided camp trailers and RVs are required.Recreation Great opportunities for hiking, fishing, scenic driving and wildlife viewing are available around the campground. The North Fork of the Sho...