Yellowstone's Hot Potting: Where Visitors Can And Cannot Soak

Hot potting is a dangerous and illegal trend that has gained popularity in Yellowstone National Park. It involves bathing in the park's iconic geysers and superheated thermal springs, which can reach temperatures of up to 212°F (the boiling point for water). Unfortunately, this activity has resulted in several deaths over the years, including that of 23-year-old Colin Scott, who slipped and fell into one of the hot springs. Despite warning signs and regulations in place, some visitors continue to engage in hot potting, drawn by the perceived health and relaxation benefits of soaking in mineral-rich waters.

Hot potting is bathing in Yellowstone's geysers and thermal springs

The Norris Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park is one of the oldest and hottest thermal areas in the park, with acidic waters that can exceed the boiling point. Despite warning signs posted around the park, some visitors choose to ignore the dangers and illegally venture off designated boardwalks and trails to search for a place to hot pot.

The water in Yellowstone's geysers and thermal springs can reach temperatures of up to 205 degrees Fahrenheit, which is enough to cause third-degree burns in seconds. The extreme heat, coupled with the acidic nature of the water, can be fatal. In 2016, 23-year-old Colin Scott died after falling into a geyser while attempting to hot pot. His body was completely dissolved by the extreme heat and acidity of the water.

While it may be tempting to seek out a natural hot tub experience, hot potting in Yellowstone is illegal and extremely dangerous. Visitors should follow the regulations set by the park and heed all warning signs. There are many other safe and legal hot springs around the world that can be enjoyed without risking your life.

It is illegal and dangerous, with warning signs posted since 1888

"Hot potting" is a dangerous and illegal activity that has gained popularity in Yellowstone National Park. It involves bathing in the park's iconic geysers and superheated thermal springs, which can reach temperatures of up to 205 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite warning signs posted across the park since 1888, some visitors still engage in this reckless behaviour, resulting in several fatalities over the years.

The extreme heat of the hot springs, coupled with their acidic nature, poses a significant threat to anyone who falls into them. In one tragic incident, a 23-year-old man named Colin Scott lost his life after falling into a geyser while attempting to "hot pot". According to reports, the extreme heat and acidity of the spring dissolved his remains.

The dangers of hot potting are not limited to the extreme temperatures of the water. The geysers in Yellowstone are known to erupt unexpectedly, and the ground surrounding the thermal springs can be weak, making it easy for someone to collapse into them. Additionally, the thermal waters may contain organisms that can cause fatal infections.

While some claim that hot potting has health benefits, such as treating arthritis and skin conditions, these claims are not well-supported by research. Similar benefits can be obtained from safer, legal hot springs in other locations.

The illegal and dangerous nature of hot potting cannot be overstated. The potential for serious injury or death is very real, as evidenced by the fatalities that have already occurred in Yellowstone. Visitors to the park must heed the warning signs and stay away from the geysers and thermal springs. There are plenty of other hot springs around the world that can be enjoyed safely and legally.

The springs' water can reach 212°F, causing third-degree burns in seconds

Yellowstone National Park is famous for its geothermal features, including geysers and hot springs. Hot potting refers to the act of sitting in or soaking in these heated bodies of water. While hot potting may be tempting, it is illegal and extremely dangerous. The springs' water can reach scalding temperatures of 200°F or above, which is enough to cause third-degree burns in seconds and has, unfortunately, resulted in several fatalities.

Hot springs are the most common hydrothermal features in Yellowstone. The water in these springs originates from precipitation that seeps through the bedrock and becomes superheated before rising back to the surface. This process results in water temperatures that can exceed the boiling point, making them extremely dangerous. The intense heat of the water can cause severe burns and even dissolve human remains, as tragically demonstrated by several incidents in Yellowstone.

The extreme temperatures of the hot springs in Yellowstone pose a significant risk to anyone considering hot potting. The water can reach up to 205°F, far exceeding the temperature required to cause third-degree burns. At these temperatures, a person can suffer devastating burns within seconds of exposure. The aftermath of such an incident can be gruesome, with skin peeling and eyes blinded from the heat.

The potential for serious injury or death from hot potting in Yellowstone's hot springs is not just theoretical—it has unfortunately become a reality for several individuals. In one tragic incident, a 23-year-old man named Colin Scott lost his life after falling into a geyser while attempting to participate in the dangerous trend of hot potting. His remains were reportedly dissolved by the extreme heat and acidic nature of the spring, as indicated by the recovery of only his wallet and shoes.

The dangers of hot potting in Yellowstone's hot springs cannot be overstated. The springs' water can reach temperatures that are beyond what the human body can withstand, resulting in devastating burns and even death. It is crucial that visitors to Yellowstone respect the boundaries and warning signs put in place to prevent such tragedies. While the allure of hot potting may be strong, it is essential to prioritize safety and opt for legal and safe alternatives to satisfy your desire for a relaxing soak.

The springs' acidity can also cause chemical burns and dissolve bodies

Hot potting is a dangerous and illegal activity that has been carried out by tourists in Yellowstone National Park for years. The activity involves bathing in the park's iconic geysers and thermal springs, which can reach temperatures of up to 205°F (96°C). This is hot enough to cause third-degree burns in seconds and has resulted in several deaths.

The extreme heat of the springs is not the only danger. The springs in Yellowstone are also highly acidic, which can cause chemical burns and dissolve human remains. In 2016, a 23-year-old man named Colin Scott died after falling into a hot spring in the Norris Geyser Basin. By the time rescue teams arrived, only his wallet and shoes could be recovered. The extreme heat and acidity of the spring were believed to have dissolved the rest of his body.

The high acidity of the springs in Yellowstone is caused by the presence of two major chemicals: hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide. When the temperature of the spring water increases, these chemicals evaporate, reducing the acidity. However, in some springs, the high acidity is due to the presence of sulfuric acid, which is produced by certain acidophilic and mesophilic bacteria. These bacteria can tolerate moderate heat and thrive in acidic environments.

The combination of high temperatures and strong acids means that the springs in Yellowstone can easily cause severe thermal and chemical burns. The acidic water can break down human flesh and bone, and even an entire skeleton may be dissolved within a few hours. This is why hot potting is extremely dangerous and should be avoided.

While soaking in hot springs may have health benefits, it is crucial to do so in a safe and legal manner. There are many other options for enjoying hot springs without risking your life, such as visiting designated resorts, public state parks, or natural springs in controlled environments. It is important to prioritize safety and follow guidelines when seeking the therapeutic benefits of hydrothermal therapy.

There are safer alternatives, including hot springs in Oregon and Iceland

Hot potting in Yellowstone is an illegal and dangerous activity that involves bathing in the park's thermal springs and geysers. The water in these features can reach temperatures of up to 205°F (96°C), which is high enough to cause third-degree burns in seconds. As a result, hot potting has led to several deaths in Yellowstone over the years.

However, there are safer alternatives to hot potting in Yellowstone, including hot springs in Oregon and Iceland that offer similar benefits without the same risks.

Oregon

Oregon is home to numerous natural hot springs, which are located in scenic regions such as the Cascade Mountains and the high desert in the eastern part of the state. Some of the popular hot springs in Oregon include:

• Bagby Hot Springs: Located in Mount Hood National Forest, Bagby Hot Springs can be accessed by hiking a little over a mile down a well-marked trail. Visitors can enjoy a series of hand-hewn tubs and cedar plumbing in the middle of the forest, free of charge.
• Belknap Hot Springs Resort: This manicured retreat offers two spring-fed swimming pools, spa facilities, gardens, hiking paths, dining options, and various lodging options. Day-trippers can use the lower pool for a small fee.
• Terwilliger (Cougar) Hot Springs: Located along the banks of the McKenzie River, these hot springs feature six tranquil pools that draw crowds of visitors year-round.
• McCredie Hot Springs: Easily accessible from Highway 58, these hot springs offer shallow pools with rushing water from Salt Creek. Caution is advised as the springs can be very hot, and clothing is optional.

Iceland

Iceland is known for its abundance of natural hot springs due to its location on a divergence of tectonic plates, resulting in significant volcanic and geothermal activity. The mix of geothermal activity has created numerous hot springs across the country that can be enjoyed year-round. Some of the top hot springs in Iceland include:

• Blue Lagoon: Iceland's most famous hot spring, located on the Reykjanes peninsula. It offers a perfect temperature of 100-102°F (38-39°C) and features restaurants, cafes, an in-water bar, a hotel, and a gift shop.
• Hrunalaug: A small and cozy hot spring located near Flúðir, featuring stone walls and intimate interaction with nature. It is situated on a privately owned farm, and while there is no camping allowed, guests are welcome to make a small donation.
• Sky Lagoon: A newer geothermal spa located on the outskirts of Reykjavik, featuring an infinity pool with stunning views of the Skerjafjordur bay. It offers various facilities, including a turf house, a cold-water glacial pool, a sauna, a steam room, and an in-pool bar.
• Reykjadalur Steam Valley: A natural hot spring river located within an hour's drive from Reykjavik. Visitors can adjust the water temperature by moving closer to the cold or hot water source. There are no changing facilities on-site.
• Landmannalaugar: A geothermal-heated hot spring in Iceland's southern Highlands, offering mineral-rich water in a stunning multi-colored landscape.

These hot springs in Oregon and Iceland provide safer alternatives to hot potting in Yellowstone, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate without risking their lives or breaking the law.

Frequently asked questions