Boiling River Boiling Up

GARDINER — If you think Yellowstone National Park’s Boiling River feels hotter this winter, you’re right.

The temperature of the thermally heated water that flows into the Gardner River at a popular swimming hole has been increasing slightly since August of last year, park spokeswoman Amy Bartlett said.

In August, the temperature was about 134 degrees Fahrenheit. Over the past seven days, the temperature has ranged from about 136.5 to 139.5 degrees.

These temperatures are too hot to swim in, explained park geologist Henry “Hank” Heasler, but dilution with cold water occurs where the Boiling River meets the Gardner. He said 120 degrees is the temperature considered “scalding,” which can burn people, especially children.

Park regulations prohibit swimming in hot springs and runoff that are of entirely thermal origin. The prohibition is two-pronged — one, thermal features are fragile and can be damaged by human activity; and two, hot springs are dangerous because water temperatures can spike suddenly.

But park regulations allow swimming in many places where hot water meets a cold water stream — like where the Boiling River meets the Gardner. The swimming hole is located within the park between the North Entrance at Gardiner and Mammoth Hot Springs.

Longtime locals swimming at Boiling River on Feb. 22 said the water seemed hotter than they’ve ever remembered it. A small cascade of hot water which in the past has been pleasant to sit under was unapproachably hot one recent Sunday, Post said.

 MORE>>>Billings Gazette