Boiling River
The Boiling River, located in the North Entrance Area of Yellowstone National Park, is currently closed for swimming due to impacts from the 2022 floods. Historically a popular soaking spot, visitors are advised of safety precautions regarding hydrothermal waters and wildlife.

ā™Øļø A natural hot spring feature in Yellowstone National Park.
āš ļø Currently closed for swimming due to 2022 flood impacts.

Why Go

šŸžļø Experience a unique natural thermal feature in the North Entrance Area.
🚶 Initial 50 yards of the compacted soil trail are accessible.
šŸ“ø Great for nature photography, even if swimming isn't possible.

Why Avoid

🚫 Swimming is currently not possible at Boiling River due to significant impacts from the 2022 floods.
āš ļø Hydrothermal waters are dangerously hot – never touch them.
🐻 Unpredictable wildlife and steep terrain pose safety risks.
♿ Trail beyond the initial 50 yards features rocks, eroded surfacing, drop-offs, and hills up to 20% grade, making it not fully accessible.
🄶 Most Yellowstone lakes and streams are dangerously cold; swimming is generally not recommended or prohibited.

šŸŠā€ā™€ļø Swimming

ā›” Swimming is currently not possible at Boiling River due to impacts from the 2022 floods.
šŸŠ Firehole Canyon near Madison Junction offers a swimming area in summer.
🐌 An aquatic invasive species, the red-rimmed melania (a small snail), was discovered in the Boiling River swimming area in 2009.

Checklist

šŸ‘€ Observe safe distances from all wildlife.
🚷 Stay behind fencing, guard rails, and ledges.
šŸ’§ Use caution around park waters which are cold and fast.
🚫 Never touch hydrothermal waters – they can cause scalding.

Tags
yellowstone national parknorth entrancehot springsoutdoornatureswimming