Tragic Accident at Yellowstone Hot Springs

Colin Scott, 23, and his sister Sable explored Yellowstone National Park, seeking to try “hot potting”—bathing in the park’s naturally heated waters. Their adventure ended in tragedy when Colin slipped and fell into a boiling hot spring near Pork Chop Geyser on June 7.

Sable told authorities they had “left the boardwalk and trekked several hundred feet up a hill” searching for a spot to soak.

Dangerous Geothermal Features

Deputy Chief Ranger Lorant Veress called the Norris Geyser basin “a very dangerous” area with water temperatures reaching up to 400 degrees, enough to cause fatal injuries. He explained closures are for both visitor safety and environmental protection. Colin’s remains showed “a significant amount of dissolving,” confirming the deadly heat.

Ongoing Risks at Yellowstone

Over 20 people have died from Yellowstone’s geothermal hazards, despite millions of visitors annually. A similar incident in 2022 involved a California man who died after entering a 140-degree hot spring.

Safety Reminder

Visitors are urged to follow all safety guidelines to avoid such tragedies and safely enjoy Yellowstone’s natural wonders.