Yellowstone National Park Isn’t Just About Old Faithful

Millions of people make the trip out to Yellowstone National Park each year. They mostly come to see one thing – Old Faithful. Yes, Old Faithful is one of the park’s most “faithful” geysers. But, it is only a small part of what the park has to offer.

If you are looking to find the most geologically active part of Yellowstone, then a trip to Norris Geyser Basin is a must. Here, the earth shakes, rattles, and rolls more than any other area of the park. Shimmering pools can quickly turn into churning, muddy, boiling cauldrons. Lakes crackle. The world’s tallest geyser, Steamboat, occasionally erupts. The Earth’s surface can get so hot that park rangers need to close a few of the boardwalks.



You have two options to explore Norris Geyser Basin. We recommend you spend the time exploring both. You don’t have to be a hard core athlete to walk the trails. Just bring plenty of water – there isn’t much shade here. And don’t forget your camera! Buffalo and elk like to wander through this area.

The 0.5 mile loop around Porcelain Basin takes you past the Black Growler Steam Vent (yes, it sounds like a dragon and stinks like one too!), Constant Geyser (the name says it all), and to Crackling Lake. Crackling Lake may just be the ugliest body of water you ever see. It’s a toxic acidic brew that constantly pops and occasionally boils. But, it is one of the reasons why this section of the park is so very active.

The 1.5 mile Back Basin Loop takes you up close to Steamboat Geyer. When it erupts, it puts on one heck of a show. Steamboat has thrown water and steam as high as 300 feet into the air! You may or may not be lucky enough to witness one of these eruptions. Scientists are not sure what causes this massive geyser to blow her top. But, it is still worth the hike to stand in front of it. The loop also takes you past Echinus Geyser (so acidic that is like vinegar) and Porkchop Geyser (it’s shaped like a chop you enjoy for dinner!)

Norris Geyser Basin is just one of many areas you will want to explore in the park. Interested in learning more? We have created the ultimate Yellowstone National Park travel guide to help you plan your dream vacation. Our guide provides you in-depth details about the park’s trails, canyons, shimmering lakes, mud pots, geysers, hot springs, sparkling pools, petrified trees, and wildlife. Go to www.greatamericanvacationideas.com/National_Parks and order on today!