Terraces of Steam: Walking the Living Stairs of Mammoth Hot Springs
A quietly explosive walk through Yellowstone’s limestone terraces — plan your visit, photograph the colors, and meet the elk.
At dawn the terraces look like a city carved by heat and patience. Thin curtains of steam lift from pools that glow pale orange and mint green; the textures of the travertine step down the hillside in delicate, bone-colored waves. You walk on a boardwalk no more than a few feet above those fragile deposits and feel the ground beneath you humming with subterranean movement — hot water that has dissolved limestone miles below returning to the surface and leaving behind the mineral skeleton of the terraces.
Trail Wisdom
Go at golden hour
Early morning or late afternoon light brings out the terraces’ textures and reduces crowds; give yourself 45–90 minutes for the main loops.
Stay on the boardwalk
Travertine is fragile and dangerously hot beneath the crust — remain on designated paths to protect the features and yourself.
Dress in layers
Temperatures can swing rapidly at 6,200 ft; a windproof shell and a warm mid-layer keep you comfortable on exposed sections.
Watch for wildlife in town
Elk and bison often graze near the historic district — keep distance, don’t feed animals, and expect them to cross walkways.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Bunsen Peak Trail for a panorama that includes the terraces
- •Fort Yellowstone historic district and the Albright Visitor Center for cultural context
Wildlife
Elk (often in town), Bison (in nearby meadows)
Conservation Note
Boardwalks and regulations exist to protect fragile thermal formations and reduce soil erosion; visitors help by staying on designated paths and not introducing foreign materials to waters.
Fort Yellowstone was established by the U.S. Army in the late 19th century to protect park resources and manage visitors; many original structures remain in the Mammoth area.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Elk sightings, Fewer crowds than summer, Active thermal runoff
Challenges: Variable weather, Snow patches on trails
Spring brings melting snow and vigorous flows that can rearrange terrace edges; days warm quickly but nights stay cold.
summer
Best for: Warm temperatures, Full access to visitor services, Vivid bacterial colors
Challenges: Peak crowds, Parking fills early
Summer offers long days and strong colors on the terraces but expect heavy visitor traffic and plan early or late visits.
fall
Best for: Fewer visitors, Crisp air for photography, Good wildlife viewing
Challenges: Shortening daylight, Possible early snow
Late summer into September balances milder crowds with stable weather and excellent elk activity as animals prepare for rut.
winter
Best for: Steam-and-snow vistas, Snowcoach or ski approach, Quiet, otherworldly scenes
Challenges: Limited access, Cold temperatures and winter travel logistics
Winter turns the terraces into a steamy monochrome landscape accessible by guided snowcoach or cross-country travel — check seasonal services.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Firm-soled shoes with grip handle damp, sometimes slippery boardwalks.
Windproof shell and mid-layerEssential
Layers let you adapt to rapid temperature swings at elevation.
Reusable water bottle (1L+)Essential
Hydration is essential; services in the park may have limited refill points.
Circular polarizer and small tripod
A polarizer removes glare on wet calcium carbonate and a tripod helps craft steam-softened exposures.
Common Questions
How long are the boardwalks at Mammoth Hot Springs?
The combined Upper and Lower Terrace boardwalk loops typically take 30–90 minutes depending on pace; expect roughly 0.5–1.5 miles of walking with some short stairs.
Are pets allowed on the terraces and boardwalks?
Pets are not allowed on thermal boardwalks and are restricted in thermal areas for their safety and the protection of features; check National Park Service regulations for where pets are permitted.
Is Mammoth Hot Springs wheelchair accessible?
Many sections of the Lower Terrace and nearby paved areas are ADA-accessible, but some upper boardwalks include steps or uneven surfaces — contact the park for current accessibility details.
Can I fly a drone over Mammoth Hot Springs?
No — drones are prohibited across Yellowstone National Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience; plan to shoot with handheld gear only.
Is there an entrance fee to see Mammoth Hot Springs?
Yes — Mammoth is inside Yellowstone National Park, which requires an entrance fee or America the Beautiful pass; fees vary by vehicle or individual.
Are the terraces dangerous?
Yes — water and ground near thermal features can be scalding and unstable. Always stay on boardwalks, follow signs, and supervise children closely.
What to Pack
Water bottle (hydration), layered clothing (temperature swings), sturdy shoes (boardwalk traction), camera with polarizer (capture colors).
Did You Know
Mammoth Hot Springs terraces are formed by travertine (calcium carbonate) deposited when hot, mineral-rich water from underground limestone cools at the surface; the deposits continuously rebuild and reshape the terraces.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive at dawn to beat crowds; carry snacks and water as services are limited; obey all boardwalk signs to protect features; check road and thermal area conditions before travel.
Local Flavor
Gardiner and the Mammoth area blend frontier history with park culture — cozy lodges, bison-slowed streets, and locally served bison burgers and elk steaks at nearby cafes make for a satisfying post-boardwalk meal.
Logistics Snapshot
Location: Northern Yellowstone (near Gardiner, MT). Elevation: ~6,200 ft. Access: Paved road year-round; seasonal services higher in summer. Fees: Yellowstone entrance fee required.
Sustainability Note
Mammoth’s thermal features are fragile. Stay on boardwalks, pack out trash, and don’t introduce soaps or foreign materials into thermal waters; small actions preserve formations for future visitors.