Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces – Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces loop from Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces – Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces loop from Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
3.4
(10)
70
hikers
Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces – Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces loop from Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
01:36
5.46km
150m
Hiking
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.
After 2.12 km for 1.34 km
Closed: • November-April (otherwise open)
After 3.52 km for 147 m
Closed: • November-April (otherwise open)
After 3.72 km for 584 m
Closed: • November-April (otherwise open)
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
11 m
Liberty Cap
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
65 m
Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
246 m
Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
436 m
Mammoth Terraces Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
961 m
Mound Spring & Jupiter Terrace
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
1.69 km
Canary Spring
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
1.89 km
Mammoth Terrace
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.33 km
Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
5.46 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.57 km
1.77 km
706 m
409 m
Surfaces
3.07 km
2.22 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 13 June
13°C
1°C
13 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an otherworldly experience that feels more like exploring a cave than a typical hike, the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces – Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces loop from Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces delivers. This easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hiking route, with 492 feet (150 metres) of climbing over roughly 1 hour and 35 minutes, is a high-payoff win for anyone wanting to witness Yellowstone's unique geothermal geology up close, suitable for most ages and skill levels.
What to expect on Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces – Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces loop from Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
The journey along the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces is a visual feast, with boardwalks and paved paths guiding you through a landscape of constantly changing travertine formations. You'll encounter vibrant features like Palette Spring, known for its striking white, orange, and brown bumps, and the intricate Minerva Terrace with its multi-tiered steps. While much of the trail is easy, be prepared for steep grades and numerous stairs, especially connecting the Lower to the Upper Terraces, which can be strenuous. This route is perfect for those who appreciate geological wonders and don't mind some climbs for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the terraces cascading into the valley.
Planning your visit
To make the most of your visit and avoid the busiest times, consider an early morning hike, especially if you're concerned about parking at Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces trailhead. While much of the trail is wheelchair-accessible, some sections have stairs or steep grades, so assistance may be needed. The best time of year to hike Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces is generally during the warmer months, but the unique geothermal activity makes it a year-round attraction. Always stay on designated boardwalks and trails to protect the delicate features and ensure your safety.
Trail details
- Distance: 3.4 miles (5.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 492 feet (150 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 35 minutes
Comments
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