Yellowstone’s most famous geyser is Old Faithful, but it’s hardly the only, or even best geyser in the park. There are several basins full of geysers, vents, fumaroles, pools, and all sorts of other strange thermal features.

One of the best is the Norris Geyser Basin. It’s a strange, barren landscape where nothing can grow because of the sulfur. Lifeless grays of mineral deposits contrast with bright greens, oranges, and reds of bacteria that only lives here. The steam from vents is everywhere.

Venting steam
Venting steam

Seeing geysers erupt is tricky. Old Faithful is easy to see, but the other geysers tend to not stick to their schedules. I waited forty-five minutes for one that was scheduled to erupt in the Old Faithful area before I had to go and look for a camp site. Here I got lucky and happened on one erupting. It was a small geyser, but it was still fun to see.

So much steam
So much steam

Rangers give frequent talks here on a geyser that unexpectedly had a major eruption recently in the middle of the night. In all the parks I visited, ranger talks are always worth attending. I love how they always have a personal story to tell. And I love how the talks are free and non-commercial. The rangers represent the National Park Service at its best.

What a strange place.
What a strange place.
Steaming forest
Steaming forest
Steaming pool
Steaming pool
Terry
I'm Terry, former cubicle-dweller, and now traveler, photographer, writer, and entrepreneur. I quit my job in 2014 to travel to US national parks, then to South East Asia. I write about independent, flexible, long-term, budget travel. Sign up to my newsletter to get the latest news on what I'm up to. I hope you join me on my trek around the world.

Like what you read? Have a question?

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *