Beautiful and Bizarre

As you walk through Norris Geyser Basin, you may feel as if you are encountering another world. In the basin—far below the towering peaks of the Gallatin Mountains—water accumulates underground. Heated by the Yellowstone Volcano, the water travels upward to erupt from acidic geysers, rise from steaming fumaroles, and simmer in shimmering pools.

Trails

Two loop trails begin here. Due to rough terrain and highly changeable conditions, please expect uneven ground and steep grades that exceed 8%. Boardwalks contain numerous steps. Rocks and roots may protrude into sections of dirt trail. Wheelchair batteries may not support uphill climbs.

Because Norris Geyser Basin changes frequently and sometimes rapidly, the trail may have closures or detours that are not shown on the map.

Back Basin Trail winds through wooded areas, and may provide some shade on a hot summer day. This loop is approximately 1½ miles (2.4 km) in length-or take the shortcut for a 1-mile (1.6 km) loop. Back Basin Trail will lead you past Steamboat Geyser, famous for the world's highest (but completely unpredictable) eruptions, and past Porkchop Geyser, the site of a small hydrothermal explosion.

Porcelain Basin Trail begins with a panoramic view of the basin, then guides you through a steaming landscape of small geysers, boiling springs, and colorful communities of heat-loving microorganisms called thermophiles. This loop is about ½ mile (.8 km) long.

On the Edge

Norris Geyser Basin is located near the Yellowstone Caldera. This vast caldera is a legacy of the colossal eruption that burst forth approximately 640,000 year's ago.

The Yellowstone Volcano-one of the largest on Earth-is still alive today. In the geyser basin, signs of the volcano's heat and gases are all around you.

All thermal areas are dangerous. For your safety, and to protect delicate features, stay on designated walkways.

Carry a water bottle with you. There is no drinking water ahead.

This exhibit made possible by a generous grant from The Yellowstone Association

Marker can be reached from Grand Loop Road (U.S. 89) near Norris Canyon Road, on the right when traveling south.

Courtesy hmdb.org

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