In a tragic turn of events, a young man’s adventurous spirit led to an unforeseen catastrophe at Yellowstone National Park. Colin Scott, a 23-year-old from Portland, had embarked on an exploration of the park with his sister, Sable, in search of excitement and a unique experience with “hot potting”—the practice of bathing in the park’s naturally heated waters. Yellowstone, famous for hosting the largest hot spring in the United States, offers breathtaking scenery and geothermal marvels that attract millions of visitors each year. Unfortunately, their quest for a memorable sibling outing ended in heartbreak and loss.
While investigating the park, Colin and Sable strayed from the safety of the designated boardwalk near Pork Chop Geyser. In an attempt to gauge the temperature of the water, Colin tragically slipped and fell into one of the park’s perilously hot springs. The incident unfolded on June 7, and park officials later reported that Colin’s body was retrieved after it was spotted floating on the surface of the boiling water. The tragic details were captured on Sable’s phone, although park authorities made the decision not to release the distressing footage out of respect for the family and the severity of the situation.
Deputy Chief Ranger Lorant Veress described the Norris Geyser Basin, where the incident occurred, as a “very dangerous” area filled with boiling, acidic waters. He stressed the importance of adhering to park closures, which are enforced not just for visitor safety but also to protect the park’s fragile ecosystem. Reports indicate that Colin and Sable had ventured off the boardwalk, trekking several hundred feet in search of a spot for their intended hot potting activity. With temperatures in the springs capable of reaching a lethal 400 degrees, the threat posed by the geothermal features of Yellowstone is all too real, capable of causing devastating injuries.
The heartbreaking fate of Colin Scott is not an isolated incident; over the years, more than 20 individuals have lost their lives due to Yellowstone’s geothermal conditions. This statistic is made even more tragic when considering the influx of around four million visitors annually. Before this incident, another devastating event claimed the life of a California man who entered a hot spring and was later identified through DNA testing after macabre discoveries were made. As the Scott family navigates through this incredibly difficult period, it serves as a poignant reminder of the need for safety awareness when exploring the natural wonders of Yellowstone. For those planning to visit the park, understanding and following safety guidelines is crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure within its breathtaking landscape.
