Turbid Springs
Turbid Springs reaches 198°F at 7,858 feet elevation in Yellowstone National Park, requiring a 2.5-kilometer hike from the East Entrance Road. The superheated water runs 163 degrees above the ambient air temperature of 35°F in this high-elevation environment where annual snowfall totals 156 inches, creating extreme thermal contrast throughout the year.
The spring sits in lodgepole pine forest in Gallatin County's eastern Yellowstone backcountry, where annual precipitation of 28 inches supports dense conifer growth between thermal clearings. The surrounding terrain consists of rolling forested ridges with thermal runoff creating mineralized channels and barren zones. The elevation and geography place this spring in some of Yellowstone's heaviest snow accumulation zones, with winter snowpack persisting well into summer.
Plan visits for mid-July through September when the 2.5-kilometer approach is snow-free. The hike requires moderate fitness and route-finding ability; carry topo maps or GPS. Extreme water temperature makes any contact dangerous; observe from safe distances. The spring's turbid discharge and mineral staining help with identification. Threemile Campground outside park boundaries, 25 kilometers away, provides the nearest camping. Watch for thermal ground hazards and maintain awareness in bear country.
The turbid name describes the cloudy or murky appearance of the superheated water, likely caused by suspended minerals or silica. The spring has been part of Yellowstone's thermal inventory since early park surveys but remains less documented than roadside features. It continues operating in natural condition under permanent National Park Service protection.
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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...
Turbid Springs sits at 7,858 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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Turbid Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. 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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