Mammoth Hot Springs
Mammoth Hot Springs discharges at 163 degrees Fahrenheit just 6 meters from Upper Terrace Drive at 6,589 feet elevation, depositing over two tons of calcium carbonate daily to build massive travertine terraces. The water runs 126 degrees above the 36.5-degree ambient temperature.
The spring complex sprawls across a prominent travertine hillside adjacent to Fort Yellowstone and the historic district. The terraced formations display white, orange, and brown mineral deposits created by millennia of calcium carbonate precipitation. The site receives 110 inches of annual snow and 24 inches of total precipitation.
The feature has drawn human attention for thousands of years, with Indigenous use documented before the park's 1872 establishment. Fort Yellowstone, built beginning in 1886, provided U.S. Army administration until the National Park Service assumed management in 1918. The spring complex remains one of Yellowstone's signature attractions.
Visit year-round, though winter brings severe cold and snow. Boardwalks provide wheelchair-accessible viewing of active terraces. Mammoth Campground, 1.4 kilometers away, offers the nearest established camping with reservations required. The developed site includes visitor center, lodging, and dining within walking distance.
Is Mammoth Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
- Casual soaking
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Overview Starting Tuesday April 15th, the Mammoth Campground is open and reservations are required. For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Fishing Bridge RV Park, Bridge Bay, Canyon, Madison, and Grant Village campgrounds), please visit the Yellowstone National Park Lodges Camping website. Recreation There are many recreational opportunities in the Mammoth Hot Springs and the North area. Visit these pages to learn more:Boating Fishing Hiking Phot...