Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonder that captivates visitors from around the world, and one of its most remarkable features is the abundance of hot springs scattered throughout the park. Yellowstone Hot Springs, located in Gardiner, Montana, just outside the park’s boundaries, offers a unique opportunity to experience the thermal wonders of this iconic destination.
Unique Features of Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is home to over 10,000 hydrothermal features, including hot springs, geysers, mudpots, and fumaroles. These features are the result of the park’s unique geology, where rainwater seeps through the bedrock and becomes superheated by the Yellowstone magmatic system.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Yellowstone’s hot springs is the vibrant colors that can be found in the hydrothermal basins. These colors are created by thermophiles, microorganisms that thrive in hot temperatures. Different types of thermophiles live at specific temperatures within a hot spring, creating distinct gradations of color.
Another key distinction between hot springs and geysers is their plumbing systems. Hot springs are characterized by open plumbing systems that allow hot water to rise to the surface without constrictions, preventing eruptions. Geysers, on the other hand, have constrictions in their plumbing systems, which lead to the buildup of steam and eventual eruptions.
Yellowstone Hot Springs in Gardiner, Montana
Yellowstone Hot Springs, located in Gardiner, Montana, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the thermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park without the crowds and restrictions of the park itself.
Hours and Prices
Yellowstone Hot Springs is open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, Tuesday through Sunday. Admission prices are as follows:
| Admission Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (13+) | $18 |
| Seniors (62+)/Veterans | $15 |
| YNP Employees | $10 |
| Kids (4-12) | $10 |
| Kids (0-3) | Free |
| Multi-Visit Pass | 12 visits for $125 |
| Birthday Pass | Free (exact day of birth only) |
| Group Pricing | Starts at $15 per person for 12-20 people |
Pool Temperatures
Yellowstone Hot Springs offers three pools with varying temperatures:
- Hot Pool: 103-105°F
- Main Pool: 98-100°F
- Cold Plunge: 60-65°F
Directions and Amenities
Yellowstone Hot Springs is located near Gardiner, Montana, and offers RV camping spots with full-service and electric hookups. Directions can be found on their website, and reservations are not necessary for soaking.
Exploring the hot springs of Yellowstone National Park is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you visit the park itself or take advantage of the nearby Yellowstone Hot Springs in Gardiner, Montana, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the incredible geological and biological wonders that make this region so special.