Near Bumpass Hell Trail
Cold Boiling Lake is a small lake at the end of Cold Boiling Lake Trail. Cold gases gently percolate up out of the lake.
Near Bumpass Hell Trail
Cold gases rising from the bottom of Cold Boiling Lake (white dots across the top of the picture) are trapped under a thin layer of ice covering the lake on a cold Novemeber day.
Near Bumpass Hell Trail
Bumpass Hell
Near Bumpass Hell Trail
Steam rising over the boardwalk through Bumpass Hell.
Near Bumpass Hell Trail
Hikers on the boardwalk in Bumpass Hell.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Bumpass Hell Trail

4.5 (24 Ratings)
A gentle, family-friendly trail with many turn around options that still include great views.
3.1
mi
Distance
289
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingHot SpringRiver/CreekViewsWildlife
Access Issues
Highway 89 is closed in the late fall, most of spring, and winter. In those later seasons, it may be open to the Bumpass Hell Trailhead, but even that is dependent on weather.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.1mi
Distance
289ft
Elevation Gain
1,051ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
8,392ft
High Point
7,415ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This is a pretty easy trail that is family friendly. It features a gradual gain in elevation until you enter Bumpass Hell. From here, there is a steeper grade heading back down, ending in boardwalks over a series of thermal pools. The trail is pretty even and easily completed with a decent treaded shoe. There is lots of educational material at the boardwalks for kids and adults alike. The trail is mostly uncovered, making a hat and water necessary as the sun is really hot here. The trail starts at a large parking lot that fills up by noon so come early. It's a little over 3 miles but can be extended if you add Crumbaugh Lake Trail or Mill Creek Falls Trail. Either way, this is a great unique, quick trail with or without kids.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
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Contributors
Heather Fernweh