West Thumb Geyser Basin
Grant Visitor's Center, Yellowstone National Park
| GPS: |
44°24'56.9"N 110°34'24.6"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Wyoming |
| Trails/Routes: | 0.4 mi |
National Park
Hike
West Thumb Geyser Basin is one of the smaller geyser basins in Yellowstone, yet its location along the shore of Yellowstone Lake and is ranked as the most scenic. This area was formed by volcanic explosion that took place more than 150,000 years ago. After the volcano exploded, the area collapsed and filled with water over time. It gets its thermal abilities from the enclosed magma trapped in the ring fractures that developed over time.In the 1990's several underwater geysers were discovered. These geysers can be seen as bulges underground, especially during the summer months. The basin is also special because of its location in Yellowstone. The West Thumb Geyser Basin is located on the edge of Yellowstone Lake.
This area features many other springs in the area. As surprising as it is, this area is also one of the least visited areas within Yellowstone. There are boardwalks all along the basin, making it an easy walk to see the beautiful hydrothermal springs in the area. West Thumb's name is derived from the thumb-like projection of Yellowstone Lake and the name was given by the 1870 Washburn Expedition. It was also known as Hot Spring Camp. West Thumb has less geyser activity than other basins. However, amazingly for its size it has all — hot springs, pools, mud pots, fumaroles and lake shore geysers.
More Information
Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
This Yellowstone National Park Itinerary will help you get started as you plan your vacation to Yellowstone National Park.
https://www.justgotravelstudios.com/collections/national-park-itineraries/products/yellowstone-national-park-itinerary?ref=9zpxis0diinBackcountry Conditions - Yellowstone National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
The map offers a quick snapshot of current trail status. Below the map is more detailed information regarding the condition of the trail, further descriptions of trail closures, warnings, and known hazards. Please make sure to review both the backcountry conditions map and the Area Conditions Detail Section of this page
https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/situationreport.htmYellowstone Geysers - West Thumb Geyser Basin
Information on the West Thumb Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park
https://www.yellowstonenationalpark.com/westthumb.htmBe courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read More
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Grant Visitor's Center, Yellowstone National Park
- Head east toward Grant Village Rd (233 ft)
- Turn left onto Grant Village Rd (1.1 mi)
- Turn right onto US-191 N/
US-287 N/ US-89 N Toll roadParts of this road may be closed at certain times or days(1.8 mi) - Turn right onto US-20 EParts of this road may be closed at certain times or days(0.2 mi)
- Turn right (361 ft)
- Turn leftDestination will be on the left(0.1 mi)
Bus service from Bozeman, MT to West Yellowstone, MT via Highway 191 is available all year.
kwhitfield
5/7/20 1:42 pm
Other Hiking Trails Nearby
Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail
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Lake Overlook
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0.1 miles WA 1.7-mile escape from the West Thumb crowds, leading through forest to a mountain-top meadow overlook of West Geyser and Yellowstone Lake.
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Lone Star Geyser Trail
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Hike, Mountain Bike 3.1 mi
Mallard Lake
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Observation Point Trail
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Hike 6.2 mi
Howard Eaton Trail
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Old Faithful Geyser
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Elephant Back Mountain Trail
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Pelican Creek Nature Trail
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Hike 2.0 mi
Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail
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Grant Village
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