The Boiling River closed indefinitely after the 2022 flood. Photo Credit: NPS
Is Yellowstone’s Boiling River open? Short answer: sadly, no. It is closed. Before the 2022 historic flood that reshaped much of northern Yellowstone’s waterways, the Boiling River was a relaxing spot to soak and swim.
But during the flood, the road from Gardiner to Mammoth was heavily damaged, part of the walkway was swept away, the soaking pools are gone, and swimming is not allowed. Check the National Park Service page about the Boiling River for current information about the area.
What Was the Boiling River?
Before the 2022 flood, the Boiling River was a fun place to soak and swim. Photo Credit: NPS
Yellowstone’s Boiling River referred to a specific stretch of the Gardner River near Yellowstone’s North Entrance, where hot spring water flowed into the cold river. The near-scalding water mixed with the cool river to form pockets warm enough for people to sit and soak in.
Over the years, visitors used river rocks to build low walls that created small soaking pools for all to enjoy.
It was one of the few places inside Yellowstone where thermal soaking was allowed, though it had seasonal closures during high water and was regularly closed when conditions were unsafe.
What Happened to the Boiling River During the 2022 Flood?
In mid June 2022, a combination of heavy rain and rapid snowmelt produced a historic flood in northern Yellowstone. Streamflows in the Yellowstone and Gardner Rivers surged to four times their expected levels, moving river channels and damaging roads, trails, and infrastructure throughout the entire region.
Watch the video below to see the flood in action:
Will the Boiling River Ever Reopen?
We hope so! But currently, there’s no plan or timeline to rebuild the Boiling River as a soaking area.
Part of the challenge is getting to the soaking area. Before the flood, visitors parked in a lot off the main road and took a short pathway to the river. That path and large portions of the access road were heavily damaged or destroyed during the flood.
Today, you can drive from the North Entrance between Gardiner and Mammoth on a new route, but there is no safe or legal access to the former Boiling River soaking site, now three miles from the road.
Fun Alternatives to the Boiling River
If you were hoping for a soak or fun water activity near the North Entrance, you still have options. Here are some alternatives that fit into a typical Yellowstone trip.
Hot Springs Resorts Near Gardiner
If your goal was a relaxing soak, these nearby hot springs resorts have large pools and several amenities to satisfy your whole group:
Yellowstone Hot Springs
Map: 24 E Gate Rd, Gardiner, MT 59030
Drive from Gardiner: 8 miles north, 10 minutes
Set on the Yellowstone River with mountain views, this spot has mineral-rich soaking pools at different temperatures, changing rooms, and basic services on site.
Chico Hot Springs
Drive from Gardiner: 30 miles north, 35 minutesThis historic resort has two open-air hot springs pools, lodging, dining, and a range of activities for guests and day visitors.
Whitewater Rafting and Adventures in Gardiner
If you’re looking for adventure, rafting on the Yellowstone River is a fun and convenient thing to do near Yellowstone’s North Entrance.
We offer trips right in Gardiner that depart from town:
- Half-day and full-day whitewater rafting on the Yellowstone River
- Scenic floats
- Horseback riding adventures
- Fly fishing trips
Plan Your Yellowstone Trip Around the Boiling River Closure
The Boiling River is closed with no reopening timeline. But you can swap your Boiling River plans for nearby hot springs, rafting, or other fun adventures to ensure a memorable trip to Yellowstone.