Forest Springs
Forest Springs occupies high-elevation terrain at 7,740 feet within Yellowstone's backcountry, designated 'H' for hot but unmeasured temperature, indicating thermal output sufficient for field classification without specific quantification.
The spring emerges in Gallatin County approximately 1.2 miles from South Rim Drive across forested terrain dominated by lodgepole pine and subalpine fir. The area sits near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone rim, where thermal features appear less densely than in major geyser basins. Annual temperatures average 34 degrees Fahrenheit with 135 inches of snowfall, creating conditions where thermal features remain active year-round while surrounded by deep winter snow. The relatively high elevation places the spring in cooler, drier conditions than lower-basin features.
Reach the spring via a 2.4-mile round-trip hike from South Rim Drive, passable July through September after snowmelt. The trail crosses uneven forest terrain with downed timber and thermal hazards. Carry topographic maps as the spring lacks signage or maintained paths. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms common at this elevation during summer months. Tower Fall Campground, 21 kilometers away, provides the nearest developed camping.
Documentation on this spring's history remains scant in park records beyond its presence in thermal inventories. The name references its forest setting rather than specific historical events or individuals. The National Park Service maintains the area under the highest protection status, preserving it as part of Yellowstone's protected wilderness without development or intensive visitor infrastructure.
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Overview Tower Fall Campground—elevation 6,600 feet (2012 m)—is on the north side of the steep, winding, road to Dunraven Pass. The campground is near the Tower General Store and Tower Fall. The Lamar Valley, with spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, is nearby as are several Day Hikes in the Tower and Northeast Area. Roosevelt Lodge, a short drive from the campground, offers dining and horseback riding. For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (F...
Forest Springs sits at 7,740 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 31% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Forest Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
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