Hot Springs In Pelican Valley
Hot Springs in Pelican Valley emerges at 156°F at 7,900 feet elevation, discharging thermal water 122 degrees above ambient temperature. Located 4.5 miles from East Entrance Road, the springs occupy one of Yellowstone's premier wildlife valleys. The National Park Service manages this permanently protected thermal feature in Gallatin County.
Pelican Valley sits at 7,900 feet elevation, forming a broad glacial valley renowned for grizzly bear activity and thermal features. The surrounding landscape consists of meadows, wetlands, and forests where thermal springs create localized warm zones. Average annual temperatures reach 34.3°F with 156 inches of snowfall accumulating through winter months. The valley receives 28 inches of precipitation annually, supporting diverse vegetation and wildlife habitat along Pelican Creek.
The springs take their name from Pelican Valley, itself named for the American white pelicans historically observed in the area. The valley has long been recognized for wildlife abundance, leading to seasonal restrictions protecting bears during critical feeding periods. Documentation focuses on the springs' ecological role within this wildlife-rich thermal landscape rather than human history.
The trail from East Entrance Road covers approximately 9 miles round-trip through grizzly country. Bear spray is mandatory, and seasonal trail closures protect bears from April through early July. Late summer and fall provide optimal access when restrictions lift. Threemile Campground, 25.3 km from the trailhead, offers the nearest camping infrastructure with reservations available.
Is Hot Springs In Pelican Valley 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...