Josephs Coat Springs
Josephs Coat Springs discharge at 199 degrees Fahrenheit in Yellowstone's remote backcountry, requiring a 6.7-mile trek from Grand Loop Road. The superheated water emerges 166 degrees above the 33-degree ambient temperature at 8,031 feet elevation on National Park Service land.
The spring sits in high alpine terrain where annual snowfall reaches 135 inches and total precipitation measures 27 inches. The backcountry location places the feature in rugged wilderness far from developed corridors, surrounded by lodgepole pine forest and subalpine vegetation adapted to extreme cold and deep winter snow accumulation.
Visit between July and September when backcountry access improves and snow recedes. Permit required for overnight wilderness camping. Carry navigation tools and prepare for sudden weather shifts at this elevation. Tower Fall Campground, 17.5 kilometers away, provides the nearest established camping.
The distinctive name likely references the biblical story, though documentation of naming history remains sparse. The spring's extreme remoteness meant minimal historical development or commercial use, leaving it in essentially pristine condition within Yellowstone's permanently protected boundaries.
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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...
At 8,031 feet, Josephs Coat Springs is in high-altitude territory where the air is noticeably thinner. Soaking in hot water accelerates dehydration and can amplify altitude effects like headache and fatigue. UV radiation is roughly 32% stronger here — wear sunscreen even on overcast days and take breaks from the water to rehydrate.
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Josephs Coat Springs requires a hike to reach, so pack light but prepared. The water is dangerously hot — bring water shoes and test pools carefully. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
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