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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

Explorer

08/30/16

Old Faithful is definitely something you must see at least once in your life, but try to avoid the summer at all costs. You might as well go to Disney World. I understand it's a very popular place because of its beauty, but it seems like people lose their minds and all common courtesy. Don't expect the normal like minded hiker you meet on trail. During the summer, the park is packed with people who don't respect the outdoors. I strongly encourage you to go, but just know what you are in for.

Explorer

08/22/16

I think the best part of Old Faithful is that it's accessible for everyone - I went with my family and my 73 year old grandmother had the same experience as her 16 year old granddaughter. We arrived about 4 minutes before it erupted (AFTER the predicted time) and still had perfect vantage points, so don't stress out if you're running late. There are plenty of boardwalks around the area with different geysers and formations allowing you to explore more than just the main viewing platform.

Explorer

08/14/16

In an attempt to get away from the crowds, I hiked the short trail to Observation Point to watch the eruption. It was cool to see it from above, but afterwards I wish I would have seen it from ground-level instead (even with all the people). It's remarkable how well-timed the eruptions are. Certainly helps with planning the day!

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

Let Adventure be your Destination in Wyoming

Wyoming’s wide-open spaces make it easy to get off the grid and on a trail, through a park, into a forest, up a mountain or down a river. During your journey through Wyoming’s Black to Yellow Region, discover geologic marvels, dense evergreen forests and sprawling prairielands.

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