New Hampshire Woman Suffers Severe Burns After Off-Trail Fall into Scalding Water in Yellowstone

In an unfortunate incident at Yellowstone National Park, a 60-year-old woman from Windsor, New Hampshire, suffered severe leg burns after hiking off-trail near the Old Faithful geyser. Despite the presence of her husband and leashed dog, the woman fell into scalding water in a thermal area. She sustained second- and third-degree burns and was flown to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center for treatment.

Stay Safe: Follow Designated Trails

The exposure to scalding water was a stark reminder of the park's warning to visitors to remain on designated trails and boardwalks in hydrothermal areas, as the ground can be fragile and thin.

Pet Policies and Thermal Area Restrictions

Park officials noted that while pets are permitted in limited areas, they are prohibited on boardwalks, hiking trails, and in thermal areas. The incident is currently under investigation, and the woman's identity has not been publicly disclosed.

Park officials emphasizes the importance of exercising extreme caution in hydrothermal areas, given the potential danger posed by scalding water just beneath the surface.