Yellowstone Tourist Suffers Third-Degree Burns After Breaking Key Park Rule

People travel from all over the world to see the thermal pools and breathtaking geysers at Yellowstone National Park. But as the posted signs and warnings tell everyone who visits that these landmarks are meant to be seen and not touched. 

A woman visiting the park on Sept. 16 learned that lesson the hard way. According to a news release from the National Park Service, a 60-year-old New Hampshire resident suffered second- and third-degree burns on her lower leg while walking in a thermal area near the iconic Old Faithful geyser. The NPS reported she was walking off-trail with her husband and dog when she stepped through a thin piece of ground and fell into scalding water. 

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She was taken to a park medical clinic for evaluation before being airlifted to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center for further treatment. The NPS says it's the first known thermal injury in Yellowstone in 2024. 

"Visitors are reminded to stay on boardwalks and trails in hydrothermal areas and exercise extreme caution. The ground in these areas is fragile and thin, and there is scalding water just below the surface," the NPS reiterated in its statement. It also noted that pets are prohibited on boardwalks, hiking trails, in thermal areas, and in park backcountry. 

It's probably safe to say the woman and her family will probably follow all the rules next time they visit the park.