Dragon's Mouth Spring

Dragon's Mouth Spring is located in the Mud Volcano Area of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, USA. This hydrothermal area is situated near the Yellowstone River and is known for its intensely acidic and sulfurous features. It is easily accessible via a short boardwalk loop.

The loud, roaring sound is created by steam and other gases exploding forcefully into a large, hidden underground cavern. As the hot gases escape through the small opening of the cave, the pressure creates turbulent, sloshing sounds that mimic a growling beast. The constant wave action of the boiling water against the rock walls amplifies this dramatic acoustic effect.

No, Dragon's Mouth Spring is classified as a mudpot or a highly active mud volcano rather than a true geyser. Unlike geysers, which have narrow conduits that trap water until it violently erupts, mudpots feature highly acidic water dissolving surrounding rock into clay. The spring pushes out waves of murky water rather than tall, concentrated jets of steam and water.

The water sloshing out of Dragon's Mouth Spring is heated to near-boiling temperatures, typically around 170 to 190 degrees Fahrenheit. The intense heat is generated by Yellowstone's massive underlying magma chamber. Visitors are warned to stay strictly on the boardwalks, as the boiling, acidic water can cause severe burns or fatal injuries.