Place · 0.6 mi away
Overview
Boiling River is (or rather, was) Yellowstone’s beloved natural soak, where hot water from Mammoth Hot Springs mixed with the cold Gardiner River to create warm pockets you could sit in. It’s currently closed to swimming due to 2022 flood damage, and there’s no announced reopening timeline. When it was open, finding the just-right blend of hot and cold made it a memorable stop.
What It’s Like (when open)
Expect shallow, often knee‑deep water with constantly shifting temperatures and currents. Move slowly to test the heat—some vents are scalding. The riverbed is rocky and slick; sturdy water shoes or strapped sandals make a big difference. Midday in summer was typically crowded; early mornings or later in the day felt calmer.
Getting There & Parking
It sits near the North Entrance between Gardiner and Mammoth Hot Springs, with two small roadside lots and a short riverside path (about 0.5 mile each way). There’s a simple restroom at the trailhead and a few benches near the river. Space is limited and fills fast at peak times.
Rules, Safety & Health
When open, the area closed at dark and alcohol wasn’t allowed. There are no lifeguards. Avoid submerging your head or swallowing water. Currents can be swift, rocks are slippery, and hot vents can burn—test carefully and supervise kids closely. Note that an invasive snail (red‑rimmed melania) has been found here.
Seasonality & Current Status
Historically, high spring runoff often forced seasonal closures; otherwise it was a daylight‑hours experience. After the 2022 floods, the site remains closed to soaking with no date to reopen. If you’re building an itinerary, verify status before committing time. As an alternative, the Firehole Swim Area has been a designated summer swim spot, though it can also close due to water levels and is noted as closed for the 2025 season.
Accessibility Notes
The first ~50 yards of the compacted-soil trail were accessible, but beyond that the surface turned rocky and uneven with short steep grades.
Best Time to Visit
If it reopens, aim for early morning or late afternoon for lighter crowds and easier parking. Peak summer afternoons were busiest; spring runoff often meant closures. Plan for daylight hours only.
Pros
- Unique hot-spring-and-river mix that created natural soaking pools
- Short, mostly flat 0.5-mile riverside walk with a scenic setting
Cons
- Closed to swimming/soaking due to 2022 flood impacts; no timeline to reopen
- Small roadside parking areas that fill quickly when open
Tips
- Confirm current status before you go; closures from 2022 floods persist.
- If it’s open, bring sturdy water shoes for sharp, slippery rocks.
- Arrive early or late for parking and a calmer soak.
- Don’t submerge your head or swallow water; there are no lifeguards.
- Expect small lots; overflow parking may mean a short roadside walk.
