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Churning Caldron

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description Churning Caldron Overview

The Churning Caldron is a turbulent, acidic mudpot located within the Mud Volcano thermal area of Yellowstone National Park in the United States. It is one of several active geothermal features accessible via an interpretive loop trail in the park. The feature consists of a pool of bubbling mud that is continuously agitated by escaping volcanic gases. It sits in close proximity to other notable thermal attractions, such as the Mud Volcano and Dragon's Mouth Spring, highlighting the region's intense underground heat.

help Churning Caldron FAQ

Where is Churning Caldron located in Yellowstone?

Churning Caldron is located in the Mud Volcano thermal area in Yellowstone National Park. This area sits along an interpretive loop trail that features several other acidic geothermal features, including the Dragon's Mouth Spring and Sour Lake.

What causes Churning Caldron to churn?

Churning Caldron is a mudpot, meaning its bubbling, turbulent motion is driven by gases rising from geothermal heat beneath the surface. The muddy water is kept in constant agitation by these escaping gases, which are rich in sulfur compounds and carbon dioxide.

How hot is the Churning Caldron mudpot?

Like other mudpots in the Yellowstone Mud Volcano area, Churning Caldron features water and mud at or near boiling temperatures, typically around 180°F or higher. The extreme heat is fueled by magma relatively close to the surface in this part of the park.

Is Churning Caldron safe to walk near?

Churning Caldron is viewable from a designated boardwalk that keeps visitors at a safe distance from the acidic, boiling mud. Like all Yellowstone thermal features, leaving the boardwalk near Churning Caldron is illegal and extremely dangerous due to unstable ground and scalding temperatures.

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