Upper Geyser Basin hike
View Photos
Upper Geyser Basin hike
Difficulty Rating:
One of the classic hikes in Yellowstone National Park, you cannot miss the Upper Geyser Basin trail. Starting at Old Faithful, this trail will grant you wonderful views of a new geyser every few minutes!
Getting there
This hike begins right outside the visitor center in Old Faithful. There is ample parking here, however, because this is such an iconic sight it fills up very fast. Get here bright and early or after 4pm to guarantee a spot. From the parking lot, head towards the large building with flags flying high on its roof – this is the Old Faithful Inn with the visitor center to the right.
About
| When to do | May through October |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Toilets | At Parking Lot |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Extreme |
| Route Type | Circuit |
Upper Geyser Basin
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Upper Geyser Basin
From the visitor center head towards the famous geyser and go around it to the right. At the first junction turn right and head down to the murmuring Firehole River. Cross the bridge and continue along the trail.
You have the option to turn up to Observation Point and Solitary Geyser if you wish, if not continue straight along the trail. After traveling along a flat boardwalk and seeing several geysers you will be joined by the trail from Solitary Geyser.
From here on out the trail is entirely flat and passes beside dozens of beautiful geyser and inkpots. The historically renowned geological beauty of Yellowstone is clearly visible on this hike. Explore as far up the boardwalk as you want to go. If you go so far as to join a paved trail, you have the option of taking this back to the visitor center if you wish.
Insider Hints
If you are physically fit and looking for more seclusion head towards Observation Point and Solitary Geyser. Turn right just after Firehole River to get up there. It is magnificent.
Stop by the incredible Old Faithful Inn afterwards and see the spectacular interior. There is a fine deli here that's good for a quick sandwich or a lovely ice cream on a hot day.
There is also a wonderful viewing deck for Old Faithful on the 2nd level of the Old Faithful Inn. Grab a coffee and relax.
Similar hikes to the Upper Geyser Basin hike
Clear Lake and Artist’s Point Loop
The Clear Lake and Artist’s Point Loop is an easy, scenic hiking circuit in Yellowstone. This trail features incredible views…
Turbid Lake Trail
The Turbid Lake Trail is an adventurous hike in Yellowstone. This trail is not well maintained and requires navigation and…
The Crevice Lake Trail
The Crevice Lake Trail is a gorgeous hike in Yellowstone. This trail can be done as a day hike or…
HikerNolifer 4 years ago
So beautiful! Another must see at Yellowstone.
Dahlia T. 4 years ago
I wish I could understand the science behind those geysers, they look marvelous!
jamaieca 4 years ago
As pretty as a picture! Geysers are spectacular. I highly recommend.
Jane Watkinson 4 years ago
I do find it amazing to observe the geysers. Their wonderful!
Taylor Amanda 4 years ago
This is another astonishing area of geothermal activity that should not be missed.
Lou Sparks 5 years ago
If not for the crowded trail, I would give it a perfect score.
Tom Pack. 5 years ago
It was a wonderful hike! Pretty interesting to see all the geysers and hot springs
Minerva Y. 5 years ago
Magnificent hike. We also headed to the Observation Point afterward. It's also worth visiting.
Peter McGuiness 5 years ago
The kids actually enjoyed the Geyser. It was their first time seeing one, and it was a memorable experience for them.
Hyro Stewart 5 years ago
It was incredible! Observation Point and Solitary Geyser were brilliant! I was extreamly satisfied!