Geysers and Yellowstone National Park are nearly synonymous. In fact a majority of the worlds geysers are located within the park. Over 500 geysers and more than 10,000 hydrothermal features can be found in Yellowstone. The park sits on top of an active volcano and includes one of the world’s largest calderas (volcanic crater) measuring 45 x 30 miles. More about the park’s geology can be obtained from the National Park Service.
Geysers and hot springs are essentially the same hydrothermal feature with different plumbing under the surface. Geysers are hot springs that occasionally spout steam and super heated water due to steam that was trapped in the underground plumbing building pressure. More about hydrothermal features can also be obtained from the National Park Service.
Old Faithful
Perhaps the most famous geyser in the world is Old Faithful. As its name suggests Old Faithful is predictable; it erupts approximately every 90 minutes.
It is also accessible. It’s located directly out the back doors of the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center. You’ll be in position for the show with a few steps along a flat boardwalk. Unfortunately the accessibility also makes it very crowded.
Hike to Observation Point for a near aerial view and even better photos.
Upper Geyser Basin
If you only have one day in Yellowstone, Upper Geyser Basin is your must see. It is home to Old Faithful and dozens of other hydrothermal features. The boardwalk and paved trails are only a couple miles but this should be a leisurely stroll, not a quick hike. Plan on spending several hours or half a day here.
There is a new hydrothermal feature around every bend and every few steps.
Meandering all the way out to Morning Glory Pool is well worth the walk.
Make your way back to the Old Faithful area after your exploration and reward yourself with lunch or a treat like ice cream in a park ranger hat!
Grand Prismatic Spring
After seeing iconic images of Grand Prismatic Spring in National Geographic, this stop was high on our list. But we weren’t alone. The parking lot was full when we passed by multiple times throughout the day. We were finally able to find a spot late one evening.
As you can see, the view from ground level is not as spectacular as the iconic image. With better planning we would have hiked to the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook for a better view. That hike is now at the the top of my list for my next visit!
Norris Geyser Basin
Near our campsite at Norris Campground was Norris Geyser Basin, the hottest thermal area in the park.
We stopped here after a long day of exploration and had boardwalks and trails nearly to ourselves.
Go
Geysers and other hydrothermal features are located all throughout Yellowstone National Park. Upper Geyser Basin and Norris Geyser Basin are two places where you can see a high concentration of these features.
Wear sunscreen and a hat. They day we explored Upper Geyser Basin was only around 80°F but there was no shade and the ground and boardwalk are white and reflective. Carry and drink lots of water.
Obey all posted signs. Stay on boardwalks and marked trails. Hydrothermal activity can create weak ground that looks stable – never walk up to a hot spring or geyser. Hydrothermal activity can also shift. There was a section of Norris Geyser Basin very close to our campground that was closed due to a shift from the “normal” activity.
As with popular sites in all National Parks, geyser areas are crowded during peak times. Consider exploring at dawn and after dinner.
Ready to explore? Pin or share the image below to tell your friends you’re going to see geysers!
Learn More
Check out these posts for more information about visiting Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone National Park Overview
Camping in Yellowstone National Park
Secret Swimming Spots in Yellowstone National Park
Best Photo Spots in Yellowstone National Park
