Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Spring

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

4.9(8,934)naturalEasy

Click thumbnails to view larger photos • Photos from Google Maps

🌡️Temperature160°F
🏊Typenatural
🥾DifficultyEasy
💰Price$35 park entry
📅Best SeasonMay through October
👥Crowd LevelHigh

About Grand Prismatic Spring

The largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world, Grand Prismatic is Yellowstone's most photographed feature. Its vivid rainbow of colors—deep blue center ringed by orange, yellow, and green bands of thermophilic bacteria—creates one of nature's most extraordinary visual displays.

Access

Short walk

🏕️

Overnight

No

👙

Clothing Optional

No

Features

Largest US hot springRainbow colorsOverlook trailBoardwalk accessViewing only

Water Minerals

SilicaSodiumChloridePotassiumSulfate

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the water temperature at Grand Prismatic Spring?
The water temperature at Grand Prismatic Spring is 160°F.
How much does Grand Prismatic Spring cost?
Grand Prismatic Spring costs $35 park entry per person.
Is Grand Prismatic Spring clothing optional?
No, Grand Prismatic Spring requires swimwear.
What minerals are in the water at Grand Prismatic Spring?
The water at Grand Prismatic Spring contains Silica, Sodium, Chloride, Potassium, Sulfate.
How difficult is it to get to Grand Prismatic Spring?
Grand Prismatic Spring has a easy difficulty level with short walk access.

Recent Google Reviews

Redge• Google Review

"Grand Prismatic is absolutely stunning and worth the stop. There are two ways to experience it. You can walk along the boardwalk for an up close view of the hot spring, or you can drive to the other s..."

10/2/2025
Jamie Spears• Google Review

"This place is definitely one of the spots you want to make time for when visiting yellowstone. There is a nice trail that loops around so you can see the gorgeous colors close up. There is also anot..."

10/21/2025
Jordan Marie• Google Review

"Beautiful to see. We didn’t have time, but would love to do the overlook hike to get a full view!"

11/29/2025