Old Faithful

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

4.3/5
based on 19 reviews

Details

Distance

0.69 miles

Elevation Gain

72 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Danny McGee

Want an adventure that will make you realize just how alive this earth truly is? Hiking through the Old Faithful Area in Yellowstone National Park will do the trick. Numerous trails wind through the the area, past hot spring pools, geysers, and thermal vents. The crystal clear blue water and explosions of steam that happen at regular intervals is surreal, and undeniably beautiful.

Starting at the Old Faithful Lodge, which is a sight to see in itself, several trails start out heading away the actual Old Faithful geyser. You can take either one as they form a loop so you will eventually end up back where you started. It is a combination of dirt trails and wooden walkways that crisscross and zigzag throughout the different areas.

There are numerous thermal pools and geysers that go off at regular intervals. Signs posted lead you in the direction of whichever spring you choose. By each spring there are signs that provide names and information.

Some notable things that I wouldn't miss are the Morning Glory Spring (pictured above), Old Faithful itself (obviously) and the Beehive Geyser.

There is so much to see you could easily spend an entire day exploring the area.

Make sure to stay on the marked paths so you do not disturb the environment. 

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
Hot Springs
River
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Old Faithful Reviews

Did you really go to Yellowstone if you didn't go to Old Faithful? Switch it up by going at sunrise, or sunset, but definitely don't skip it

Park regulars who were camped near us recommending getting the Old Faithful for sunrise. Made for a really early morning as we had to drive from the opposite side of the park, but so glad we heeded the advice. While Old Faithful is usually surrounded by crowds, we witnessed the world's most famous geyser in relative solitude. The light at sunrise made from some great pictures as well.

Explorer

01/25/17

Old Faithful is a must if you are going to Yellowstone NP. Perfect day trip for the family. Easy drive from West Yellowstone.

Explorer

11/03/16

A short walk to the viewing platform surrounds you with thousands of other people ready to view the geyser. Every park ranger as well as signs within the information centers have a prediction of the next rupture (it's usually very close to this time). If you want a good view without heads in your way I would get there a bit early to get the front row.

Explorer

09/28/16

It's pretty incredible to watch, I have been to Yellowstone twice. After the first time seeing it, it's not as exciting in my opinion. If you have never seen it, go see it.

Explorer

09/19/16

The old standby. Must do for every Yellowstone visit.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Upper Geyser Basin Old Faithful Observation Point Loop

Cross-Country Ski around Old Faithful, Yellowstone

Photograph the Elusive Beehive Geyser

Hike to Lone Star Geyser

Mystic Falls Loop

Hike above Grand Prismatic Spring