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Upper Geyser Basin Old Faithful Observation Point Loop

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

4.7/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

5.03 miles

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Crystal Guthrie

Home to Old Faithful, the Upper Geyser Basin contains the majority of the world's active geysers and provides gorgeous views along the Firehole River. Old Faithful and several other geysers erupt multiple times per day, and hikers often see wildlife up close.

Starting at the Old Faithful Visitor Center, you can follow a flat, meandering path along the Firehole River to view several different geysers and geothermal features.

The trail begins on an accessible, paved path but then changes to well-maintained gravel. Depending on the time and energy you have, destinations in the basin include: Castle Geyser 0.2 miles, one way, Daisy/Grotto geysers 0.9 miles, one way, and Morning Glory Pool 1.1 miles, one way. You can choose to loop by either taking the Northern or Southern trail, crossing over the Firehole River on the boardwalk. Each step along the way presents you with new photo and video opportunities. If you are lucky, you can see some spectacular eruptions, such as the Grotto Geyser (part of Geyser Hill) and, of course, Old Faithful. Plan to take your time to watch the numerous types of geothermal activity as well as catch your breath (elevation is above 7,300 feet).

Visiting in the winter requires a little more coordination (due to restricted road access inside the park), however, it is a special time to see the steamy geothermal activity and avoid the crowds. Depending on the amount of snow, you can either hike, snowshoe, or ski tour. Several additional hikes can be accessed from the Lower Geyser Basin trail, you can assess the level of difficulty and conditions at the Visitor Center.

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Features

Photography
Skiing
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
Hot Springs
River
Romantic
Scenic
Wildlife

Reviews

Assortments of geysers, thermal springs, mud pots and more found along this popular area of Yellowstone. After seeing Old Faithful take the boardwalks to view a variety of spots on the loop. This loop and area is crowded but mornings and evenings are great times to visit.

Great quick hike in this park. Time it to start or stop around when Old Faithful erupts, then do this stroll. Cool to see all the other Geyers, even if Old Faithful is the biggest most regular geyser in the park.

Beat the crowds and walk further away from Old Faithful to see other impressive geysers. Early morning or evening make for less crowds.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike above Grand Prismatic Spring

Let Adventure be your Destination in Wyoming

Wyoming’s wide-open spaces make it easy to get off the grid and on a trail, through a park, into a forest, up a mountain or down a river. During your journey through Wyoming’s Black to Yellow Region, discover geologic marvels, dense evergreen forests and sprawling prairielands.

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