Pros & cons
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
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.
Where it is
44.9850, -110.6893Tips for Boiling River
- 01Confirm current status before you go; closures from 2022 floods persist.
- 02If it’s open, bring sturdy water shoes for sharp, slippery rocks.
- 03Arrive early or late for parking and a calmer soak.
- 04Don’t submerge your head or swallow water; there are no lifeguards.
- 05Expect small lots; overflow parking may mean a short roadside walk.
Amenities
Near Boiling River
All places →All trails →
0.6 mi away45th parallelQuick photo stop marking halfway to the North PolePullout · Parking
0.7 mi awayMammoth CampgroundYear-round basecamp near hot springs and roaming elkCampground · Restroom
0.7 mi awayMammoth Springs Post OfficeHistoric New Deal post office with character and bear sculpturesParking
0.8 mi awayFort YellowstoneHistoric Army post with sandstone buildings and an easy walking tourRestroom · Exhibit
1.1 mi awaySepulcher Mountain TrailSteep summit loop with huge Yellowstone views and real solitudeChallenging · 11 mi · 7 hr
1.1 mi awayMammoth Hot Springs Lower Terrace BoardwalkShort, ever-changing travertine terraces with big payoff fastEasy · 0.8 mi · 45 min
1.1 mi awayMammoth TerracesStair-filled boardwalks through ever-changing travertine sculpturesEasy · 2.5 mi · 1.5 hr
1.1 mi awayBeaver Ponds Loop TrailWildlife-rich loop from Mammoth to serene ponds and ridge viewsModerate · 5.6 mi · 2.4 hr
