Mammoth Hot Springs

A Long History of Wonder Mammoth Hot Springs was first formally documented by the 1871 Hayden Geological Survey, though local knowledge of the terraces predated their visit. Photographer William Henry Jackson and painter Thomas Moran both captured the springs that year, and the survey named the extinct cone at its edge Liberty Cap, for its resemblance to the caps worn by revolutionaries in France. After years of poor civilian management following the park's 1872 founding, the U.S. Army took over administration in 1886 and built Fort Yellowstone here, whose stone buildings still serve as park headquarters today.

Getting There

Distance from Gardiner & North Entrance: 5 miles, ~10 minutes

Distance from West Yellowstone & West Entrance: 49 miles, ~1.5 hours

Mammoth Hot Springs sits just five miles inside the North Entrance, making it the first major stop for anyone driving in from Gardiner. From the West Entrance at West Yellowstone, the route runs through Madison Junction and Norris to reach it, the longest of the drives covered here.

What You'll See Mineral-rich water flows down a hillside here, building travertine terraces layer by layer into pale, cavernous formations that shift color and shape over time. The Lower Terraces, including Minerva Terrace, Palette Spring, and Liberty Cap, are an easy boardwalk walk from the parking area, while the 1.5-mile, one-way Upper Terrace Drive loops past Orange Spring Mound, Canary Spring, and Angel Terrace for those who'd rather stay in the car.

Visitor Tips Elk frequently graze right on the lawns of the historic Fort Yellowstone buildings, so keep a respectful distance even in the middle of the historic district. The Albright Visitor Center, itself a former cavalry barracks, is a good first stop for maps, ranger advice, and a look at park history. Because it's so close to Gardiner, Mammoth makes an easy add-on to either the start or end of a day trip.