Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills
Hot Springs at Sulphur Hills emerges at 196°F at 8,078 feet elevation, ranking among Yellowstone's hottest thermal features. Located 2.1 miles from the nearest road, the springs discharge water 162 degrees above ambient temperature. The National Park Service manages these permanently protected thermal features in Gallatin County.
The springs occupy high-elevation volcanic terrain at 8,078 feet, where extensive hydrothermal alteration creates the distinctive Sulphur Hills landscape. Thermal features emerge amid mineralized soils and sparse vegetation adapted to geothermal conditions. The surrounding subalpine environment experiences average temperatures of 33.7°F with 144 inches of annual snowfall. The area receives 27 inches of precipitation yearly, supporting forests that transition to thermal barrens near active vents.
The name describes the sulfur-rich geological environment created by intense hydrothermal activity. Documentation focuses on the springs' geological significance within Yellowstone's thermal system rather than human history. The area's elevation and remote location likely limited historical visitation, with formal documentation occurring through park thermal inventories.
The approximately 4-mile round-trip hike crosses subalpine terrain requiring moderate fitness. Late summer provides the best access window before winter snow. The springs remain dangerously hot and contact is prohibited. Threemile Campground, 31.2 km distant near the park's east entrance in Shoshone National Forest, offers the nearest camping with reservations required.
Is Hot Springs At Sulphur Hills worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
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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...