Boiling River, Natural hot spring in Yellowstone National Park, United States.
The Boiling River is a natural hot spring in Yellowstone National Park where thermal waters from Mammoth Hot Springs meet the cold Gardner River. The mixing of these two water sources creates varying temperatures throughout the stream's course.
The discovery of this thermal spring in the 1800s helped spark interest in establishing Yellowstone as the world's first national park. Geothermal features continue to shape the park's significance as a protected natural area.
Native American tribes recognized these thermal waters as sacred places and used them for healing rituals before the establishment of the national park.
The site is best visited in early morning or late afternoon when fewer people are around. Access to swimming areas remains limited, so visitors should check current access information before arriving.
The spring reaches temperatures of about 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60°C) before meeting the Gardner River and gradually cooling. This temperature range makes it a rare example of extreme geothermal activity in the park.
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