144°F7,610 ftOpenHikeNational Park ServiceCamping nearby (7.5 mi)
Very Hot Source — Use Extreme Caution
At 144°F, the source water at Whiterock 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.
Whiterock Springs flows at 144°F in Yellowstone National Park at 7,610 feet elevation, creating a moderately hot feature located 2,707 meters from the nearest road. The spring delivers water 110 degrees above ambient temperature in terrain where average annual temperatures reach 34°F with 137 inches of snow accumulation. Recent USGS analysis reveals relatively dilute thermal water with low dissolved solids at pH 6.7.
The spring emerges at 7,610 feet elevation in Yellowstone's thermal landscape, requiring a hike of roughly 1.7 miles to reach. The surrounding area features lodgepole pine forests interspersed with thermal ground, typical of Yellowstone's backcountry thermal features. The location receives 27 inches of annual precipitation supporting dense coniferous vegetation beyond immediate thermal zones. The Gallatin Mountains rise nearby, creating dramatic topographic relief across the region. The spring's name likely references distinctive white mineral deposits or rock formations characteristic of many Yellowstone thermal features.
History of Whiterock Springs
The name Whiterock Springs references mineral deposits typical of siliceous sinter formations common in neutral-pH Yellowstone thermal springs. The spring was documented during systematic USGS thermal surveys conducted throughout the 20th century to catalog Yellowstone's thousands of thermal features. The area has remained in natural condition under National Park Service management since park establishment in 1872, with minimal development in backcountry zones. The spring's chemistry indicates mixing with cooler groundwater compared to superheated features like nearby geysers.
Plan for a moderate hike exceeding 1.5 miles from trailheads, requiring good physical condition. Visit during July-September when trails are snow-free. The 144°F water temperature is dangerous; maintain safe distances. Indian Creek Campground offers reservable sites 12 kilometers away with views of Electric Peak. Bring bear spray in Yellowstone's backcountry. Water chemistry with low chloride suggests this spring differs from the high-chloride geyser basins, indicating a distinct hydrothermal reservoir.
Is Whiterock Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Whiterock Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and overnight camping trips.
Monthly Climate
15°Jan
17°Feb
25°Mar
30°Apr
38°May
50°Jun
60°Jul
59°Aug
50°Sep
34°Oct
22°Nov
13°Dec
Annual Precip: 27.4 inAnnual Snow: 136.7 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 13°F · Water 144°F · +131° contrast
JanuaryAir 15°F · Water 144°F · +129° contrast
FebruaryAir 17°F · Water 144°F · +127° contrast
December offers 47°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
75.7°F
(24.3°C)Measured Sep 14, 2006
Water ChemistrySampled 2006-09-14
The water at Whiterock Springs is slightly acidic (pH 6.7).
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...
What is the water temperature at Whiterock Springs?
Whiterock Springs has a water temperature of 144°F (62°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Whiterock Springs located?
Whiterock Springs is located in Gallatin County, Wyoming at 7,610 feet elevation, near West Yellowstone. Coordinates: 44.7810°N, 110.6990°W.
How do I get to Whiterock Springs?
Whiterock Springs has Hike road access (1.7 mi from the road).
Is Whiterock Springs free to visit?
Whiterock Springs has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Whiterock Springs?
Yes, Indian Creek Campground (Wy) is located nearby (7.5 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Whiterock Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 6.7 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Whiterock Springs?
The water at Whiterock Springs reaches 144°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 Whiterock Springs crowded?
Whiterock Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Whiterock Springs?
Essentials for Whiterock 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.