45th Parallel Bridge

Be sure to visit the 45th Parallel Bridge, located close to the Boiling River in Yellowstone National Park, where the 45th parallel of latitude runs on planet Earth.

  • Visit the 45th Parallel Bridge to see where the 45th parallel marks the midway point between the North Pole and equator
  • Swim in the Boiling River and luxuriate in the warm waters
  • Take your camera to capture the memories of Yellowstone National Park

Overview

The 45th Parallel Bridge marks one point on the 45th parallel that also crosses the globe through Venice, Italy, Ottawa, Canada and Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota. This is an imaginary line circling Earth halfway between the North Pole and the equator.

Location

The 45th Parallel Bridge is located between the Gardner River and Mammoth Hot Springs, on the park entrance road, with parking on the side of the road by the river.

Seasons

Yellowstone Park is open all year but summer and fall are the best times to visit. Many interior roads close during the winter. Swimming in the nearby Boiling River is permitted in daylight hours, but the river is closed to swimming in spring to the middle of summer due to high water levels.

What to Do at the 45th Parallel Bridge

Certainly you should shoot some photos of the family by the sign of the 45th parallel. It’s a unique spot to capture as a memory.

Boiling River is just one of a couple places in Yellowstone Park where folks can swim. The hot springs spill into the Gardner River, 140-degree water meeting the cold water of the river and creating much steam.

Here you have a hot tub provided by nature, wonderful views and a place to relax and unwind while watching the wildlife.

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