Norris Geyser hike
View Photos
Norris Geyser hike
Difficulty Rating:
The Norris Geyser is a flat trail in Yellowstone that will guide you through several roaring geysers and colorful inkpots. Though it is busy, this hike is far superior to the Artist Point pots trail, as escaping the crowds takes a matter of minutes.
Getting there
From Madison Junction, head north along Highway 89 for nearly 13.7mi. Turn left towards the Norris Geyser Basin. This narrow road goes up to the parking lot and visitor center.
About
| When to do | May through October |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Toilets | At Parking Lot |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Circuit |
Norris Geyser
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Norris Geyser
From the trailhead, walk down the only path, passing by the visitor center. You have many options to explore this natural wonder, allowing you to customize this hike to fit exactly how much energy you have. If you are feeling more tired, walk down to the right towards the Porcelain Basin. You will be able to see several geysers, including Pinwheel Geyser, Ledge Geyser and the large Black Growler Steam Vent. This short loop is on a boardwalk, and remains mostly flat.
A longer option is to do the circuit around Back Basin to the left. Starting along this trail, you will quickly leave the large crowds, and pass by several beautiful geysers. There is also the option of cutting this trail short and returning before you cross Tantalus Creek, however doing the full loop offers several stellar views.
We advise doing the Back Basin loop, then heading down to Porcelain Basin, as the routes throughout this trail system remain almost entirely flat.
Insider Hints
The roadway leading up to the parking lot is frequently closed due to full capacity. Arrive early to snag a spot.
The Norris Geyser Basin Museum is a great place to bring children, as is the cute bookstore.
Similar hikes to the Norris Geyser hike
Cascade Creek Trail
The Cascade Creek Trail is a short and sweet hiking trail in Yellowstone. This route is family-friendly and a good…
Eleanor Lake Trail
The Eleanor Lake Trail is a short and sweet hike in eastern Yellowstone. This short trail is family-friendly and a…
Trout Lake and Buck Lake Trail
The Trout Lake and Buck Lake Trail is a gorgeous hike in Yellowstone. This trail is easy and family-friendly. Trout…
Dahlia T. 4 years ago
Steam from the geysers looks like magic. My fondness of this place is beyond words to describe.
MamaBear 4 years ago
Easy trail and great to bring the kids along.
Matty E. 4 years ago
Good hike. Trail was short and easy. So nice to be here even when it's cloudy.
Tati Max 4 years ago
The geyser was fantastic however the air in the area was quite dry.
Polina Ivanov 4 years ago
This is my second geyser. Can I call myself an official Geyser-Chaser now?
Peter McGuiness 4 years ago
The roaring geysers were incredible. The colorful inkpots were impressive as well.
MissGiggles 4 years ago
This was a nice short trail with multiple views of geysers, not too difficult mostly flat.
Harold P. 5 years ago
The steam looks great! Nice circuit trail route. It was an amusing adventure.
Carmilla Shzm 5 years ago
Did this hike with my husband few years back. It was a nice place. I'm fond of geysers so I enjoyed it a lot.
mountaincat 5 years ago
We've visited the museum and bought some souvenirs. Nice spot, easy to visit, right next to the road.