Highlight • Lake
Sour Lake
Hiking
5.0
(11)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
Jamie S.
August 30, 2024
Hiking
Sour Lake is located in Yellowstone National Park and is a highly acidic body of water. The lake's extreme acidity is because of the microorganisms that live in it; they convert high levels of sulfur in the area into sulfuric acid. This process not only makes the water highly corrosive but also contributes to the lake's distinctive blue color. Sour Lake is not suitable for swimming or any direct contact due to its dangerous acidity so please only take photos and stay on the designated path.
Sigrid
October 5, 2025
Hiking
Sour Lake is a well-known geothermal feature in the Mud Volcano Area of Yellowstone National Park. This area is famous for its unusual and extremely acidic mud springs and thermal pools. Sour Lake is one of the most acidic thermal pools in Yellowstone, formed by the geological and microbial processes in the Mud Volcano Area.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Sour Lake
2.0
(1)
10
hikers
3.49km
00:56
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Easy
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,390 m
Weather
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Today
Friday 13 March
4°C
-1°C
53 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 36.0 km/h
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