Old Faithful
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Details
Distance
0.69 miles
Elevation Gain
72 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Danny McGee
Want an adventure that will make you realize just how alive this earth truly is? Hiking through the Old Faithful Area in Yellowstone National Park will do the trick. Numerous trails wind through the the area, past hot spring pools, geysers, and thermal vents. The crystal clear blue water and explosions of steam that happen at regular intervals is surreal, and undeniably beautiful.
Starting at the Old Faithful Lodge, which is a sight to see in itself, several trails start out heading away the actual Old Faithful geyser. You can take either one as they form a loop so you will eventually end up back where you started. It is a combination of dirt trails and wooden walkways that crisscross and zigzag throughout the different areas.
There are numerous thermal pools and geysers that go off at regular intervals. Signs posted lead you in the direction of whichever spring you choose. By each spring there are signs that provide names and information.
Some notable things that I wouldn't miss are the Morning Glory Spring (pictured above), Old Faithful itself (obviously) and the Beehive Geyser.
There is so much to see you could easily spend an entire day exploring the area.
Make sure to stay on the marked paths so you do not disturb the environment.
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Reviews
Okay..I'm giving it 3 stars because I was very underwhelmed by Old Faithful. Overall, Yellowstone is a staple National Park to check out and I encourage everyone to do so - but expect a large crowd at all times of the year and for the geysers to under impress just a bit. If you have limited time, I recommend finding other hikes and views if you're looking to be amazed! If you're looking for classic views, this is the spot for you :)
3.0
Old Faithful is a classic landmark within Yellowstone National Park where large crowds flock to the geyser before each eruption. It's really cool to see in person.
5.0
Super popular attraction, but so worth it! Hang around for a bit. Walk around the area. It's cool to see and if your legs are tired from hiking find a place to sit and people watch for a half hour with Old Faithful in the backround!
5.0
If you're in Yellowstone, you simply cannot miss seeing Old Faithful! The visitor center is also top notch, I would highly recommend stopping in there to help plan your stops in the park. Super busy, but that's to be expected. Loved it!
5.0
It's just one of those iconic spots you've got to see in Yellowstone! Very tall geyer and always right on time. There's a great visitor center and you can get up close to the base of the geyser, although there are substantial summertime crowds. I really enjoyed the area around Old Faithful - you can see fields with geysers throughout - truly feels like you're on another planet! However be wary of setting your expectations too high. Old Faithful was far from my favorite or most memorable feature seen in the park, but is certainly still worth seeing once!
4.0
Everyone should see this eruption at least once while completing a trip to Yellowstone.
5.0
Did you really go to Yellowstone if you didn't go to Old Faithful? Switch it up by going at sunrise, or sunset, but definitely don't skip it
4.0
Park regulars who were camped near us recommending getting the Old Faithful for sunrise. Made for a really early morning as we had to drive from the opposite side of the park, but so glad we heeded the advice. While Old Faithful is usually surrounded by crowds, we witnessed the world's most famous geyser in relative solitude. The light at sunrise made from some great pictures as well.
4.0
Old Faithful is a must if you are going to Yellowstone NP. Perfect day trip for the family. Easy drive from West Yellowstone.
5.0
A short walk to the viewing platform surrounds you with thousands of other people ready to view the geyser. Every park ranger as well as signs within the information centers have a prediction of the next rupture (it's usually very close to this time). If you want a good view without heads in your way I would get there a bit early to get the front row.
4.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Upper Geyser Basin Old Faithful Observation Point Loop
Cross-Country Ski around Old Faithful, Yellowstone
Photograph the Elusive Beehive Geyser
Hike to Lone Star Geyser
Hike the Mystic Falls Loop
Hike above Grand Prismatic Spring
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