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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hike-boil-water

At elevations no higher than 6,500 feet, how long should you boil clear water at a rolling boil?

One minute is enough at most hiking elevations.

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  1. Ten seconds
  2. Twenty minutes
  3. One minute ✔

Why: Boiling kills most disease-causing germs. At altitudes above 6,500 feet, boil for three minutes instead.

Huh, didn't know that: To avoid burns, let boiled water cool before you use it.

The dad joke
Why did the hiker boil water for one minute? He wanted to be a rolling success.
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References

Answer: One minute. Boiling kills most disease-causing germs. At altitudes above 6,500 feet, boil for three minutes instead.

  1. CDC: Water Treatment When Hiking, Camping or Traveling www.cdc.gov/drinking-water/prevention/water-treatment-hiking-camping-traveling.html
    bring clear water to a rolling boil for 1 minute. At elevations above 6,500 feet, boil for 3 minutes.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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