
• Yellowstone has thousands of hot springs, but there are only a few places to soak at
Yellowstone National Park is one of Earth's most well-known parks, popular for its geysers, hot springs, and unique geothermal activity. It's also the first national park ever created (established in 1872).
Yellowstone is located in the territory of 3 states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. The park also has incredible wildlife like bison, bears, elk, and wolves. However, most people visit Yellowstone National Park to see unique geothermal activity.
Discover Yellowstone's Geothermal Features: Look, Don't Touch
Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal features, including 10,000 hot springs, mud pots, and geysers. Did you know that Yellowstone has half the world's active geysers?
These colorful, steamy pools may look inviting, but they're unsafe for swimming or soaking. The water can reach dangerous temperatures over 200°F (93°C), and stepping off the boardwalks can destroy you and fragile formations that took a long time to form.

Top Must-Visit Attractions at Yellowstone National Park You Can't Miss
Yellowstone is full of wonderful places to see. Here are the most impressive must-visit ones.
Old Faithful Geyser
Old Faithful Geyser is the most reliable geyser in Yellowstone National Park. It's called "Old Faithful" because it erupts so regularly, and it's one of the most famous geysers in the world. It erupts between 106 and 184 feet (32 to 56 meters). That's about as tall as a 15-story building!
Old Faithful Geyser – The Clock Of Yellowstone in the Yellowstone National Park
Grand Prismatic Spring
Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the U.S. and the third-largest in the world. It is also one of the top must-visit spots in Yellowstone National Park. The spring is known for its vivid colors and massive size, making it one of the most popular attractions in the park.
Midway Geyser Basin
Yellowstone National Park is a land of wonders, and Midway Geyser Basin is one of its most magical spots. Known as "Hell's Half Acre," Midway Geyser Basin is home to 4 geothermal landmarks, including the famous Grand Prismatic Spring, Excelsior Geyser Crater, Turquoise Pool, and Opal Pool.
Midway Geyser Basin – Four Geothermal Landmarks in Yellowstone
Black Sand Basin
Have you ever wanted to explore a place that looks like it's from another planet? Black Sand Basin in Yellowstone National Park is one of those spots. Black Sand Basin has unique obsidian sand and multiple geothermal features. It's colorful, quiet, and full of geothermal surprises.
Black Sand Basin – Obsidian Sand and Handkerchief Pool in Yellowstone Park
Norris Geyser Basin
Norris Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit for its steaming geysers, bubbling hot springs, and ever-changing landscape. It's the hottest, most acidic, and oldest thermal basin in the park, making it a unique destination full of surprises.
Norris Geyser Basin – Hottest, Most Acidic, and Oldest Thermal Basin in Yellowstone Park
West Thumb Geyser Basin
West Thumb Geyser Basin is Yellowstone’s only lakeside geyser basin. It has a mix of hot springs, geysers, mud pots, and fumaroles. All are surrounded by the beauty of the largest high-altitude lake in North America. Interestingly, West Thumb is actually a crater within a crater!
West Thumb Geyser Basin – Yellowstone’s Lakeside Geysers and Springs in a Crater
Why Can't You Soak in Yellowstone's Geothermal Pools?
Yellowstone's hot springs and geysers are protected by strict rules. It's illegal to bathe in them. This protects you from burns and accidents, and it also preserves these delicate natural wonders for future generations.
Many visitors don't realize that accidents happen every year because people ignore warnings or get too close to thermal areas.
So, while the pools might look like the perfect spa, sit back and enjoy the view from a safe distance.
If you're soaking in designated areas like the Firehole River, follow the posted rules: no pets, no alcohol, and no nudity. Always stay alert and respect the environment so future generations can enjoy it, too.

Spots to Soak in Yellowstone National Park
Even though most geothermal pools are off-limits, there are a few areas where you can safely enjoy geothermal mineral water.
Firehole River Swimming Area
- Location: Near Madison Junction on Firehole Canyon Drive.
- What to Expect: A warm swimming hole where geothermal runoff mixes with the river. It's a refreshing spot in the summer, especially on hot days. The water is usually around 80°F (27°C).
- Why Visit: It's easy to access, fun for families, and surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Boiling River
- Location: Near the North Entrance of Yellowstone, 2 miles south of Gardiner, Montana.
- What to Expect: Hot water from a spring flows directly into the cold Gardner River, creating the perfect soaking temperature.
- Important Update: The Boiling River has been closed since 2022 due to flooding. Check for updates before planning a visit.
Backcountry Soaking: An Adventure in Yellowstone
Interestingly, you can find remote hot spring soaking spots in Yellowstone's backcountry. Visiting is difficult because it requires long hikes, camping permits, and careful preparation.
For example, you can hike to areas like Dunanda Falls or Bechler River, where the geothermal water mixes with cold streams.
But hiking in Yellowstone is no joke. You must watch out for grizzly bears, quickly changing weather, and unmarked trails. Bring the right gear, plan, and always check with the Yellowstone Backcountry Office before heading out.
Hot Springs Near Yellowstone National Park
The Yellowstone National Park and surrounding area is full of geothermal activity. Here are the top nearby soaking spots you can enjoy, including developed ones.
Wyoming Hot Springs
This area is full of natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing. One of the best spots is Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, located just a few hours from Yellowstone's East Entrance.
Thermopolis is home to the largest mineral hot spring in the world. The State Bath House is at the heart of the park with a free bathhouse and soaking pools kept at 104°F (40°C). Also, you can book your stay at one of the hotels with mineral water pools, such as Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel and Thermopolis Hot Springs Hotel and Spa.
Other nearby soaking spots include DeMaris Hot Springs near Cody and Chief Washakie Plunge on the Wind River Reservation.
Montana Hot Springs
Montana has a ton of developed and undeveloped soaking areas. The closest ones to Yellowstone National Park are Yellowstone Hot Springs, Chico Hot Springs, and Bozeman Hot Springs.
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