Norris Geyser Basin 2
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Norris Geyser Basin

4.8
·379 reviews·, United States

Yellowstone's hottest and oldest thermal area, featuring the dramatic Porcelain and Back Basins with powerful geysers and colorful hot springs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Norris Geyser Basin 2

Norris Geyser Basin

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Yellowstone's hottest and oldest thermal area, featuring the dramatic Porcelain and Back Basins with powerful geysers and colorful hot springs.

4.8
(379 reviews)

"A symphony of hot springs, Norris is a top-tier geothermal wonder with awesome views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Water & Sunscreen

No shade here! Stay hydrated and protected from the sun on the exposed boardwalks. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Allow 2-3 Hours

Take your time to explore both the Porcelain and Back Basins for the full experience. :stopwatch:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Porcelain Basin

Porcelain Basin

North section

A surreal landscape of steaming vents and colorful hot springs, offering a panoramic view of geothermal activity.

Back Basin

Back Basin

South section

Explore diverse thermal features, including the powerful Steamboat Geyser, the world's tallest active geyser.

Museum of the National Park Ranger

Museum of the National Park Ranger

Entrance area

Gain insights into the history and science of Yellowstone's geothermal wonders before or after your walk.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds at Norris

Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone's hottest and oldest thermal area. To avoid the peak crowds, especially in July, aim for super early mornings or late afternoons. The boardwalks can get busy, so an early start is key for a more serene experience.

Prepare for the Elements

The Norris Geyser Basin is an exposed area with no shade, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. The boardwalks are easy to navigate, but the geothermal activity means steam can obscure views and create humid conditions. Wear comfortable shoes.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Geyser Basin in the evening?

Bring Water & Sunscreen

No shade here! Stay hydrated and protected from the sun on the exposed boardwalks. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Allow 2-3 Hours

Take your time to explore both the Porcelain and Back Basins for the full experience. :stopwatch:

reddit.com

Norris Geyser Basin. Worth it?

reddit.com

Visiting the Geyser Basins

Comfortable Walking Shoes

The boardwalks are easy, but you'll be doing a lot of walking. :athletic_shoe:

Check Geyser Activity

Ask rangers about recent Steamboat Geyser eruptions for a chance to witness its power. :mag:

reddit.com

5 Tips for Yellowstone- July 2021

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Water & Sunscreen

No shade here! Stay hydrated and protected from the sun on the exposed boardwalks. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Allow 2-3 Hours

Take your time to explore both the Porcelain and Back Basins for the full experience. :stopwatch:

Comfortable Walking Shoes

The boardwalks are easy, but you'll be doing a lot of walking. :athletic_shoe:

Check Geyser Activity

Ask rangers about recent Steamboat Geyser eruptions for a chance to witness its power. :mag:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(379 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Norris Geyser Basin is lauded for its unique and powerful geothermal activity, offering a symphony of hot springs and geysers. Visitors appreciate the easy boardwalks and the educational museum. However, some note that the Porcelain Basin has less water than in the past, and it can get quite crowded.

"Symphony of hot springs,in my ranking, Norris can be ranked in the top 4 of Yellowstone's geothermal phenomena.
1. Old Faithful Geyser Group, 2. Grand Prismatic, 3. West Thumb Hot Springs."

J Adventured

"There are two parts: north porcelain basin and south back basin. Plan to spend two to three hours to finish the trails. Easy boardwalk, no shades, bring plenty of water when walking among the steams. Awesome views."

Susan Ding

"Norris Geyser Basin is one of my favorite places to visit in Yellowstone Park. I normally skip the Porcelain Basin because you can see most of it from the hill. Used to have a lot more water there."

Rara Bee

What People Like

Unique geothermal features
Easy boardwalk trails
Educational museum

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Less water in Porcelain Basin

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Norris Geyser Basin is located in the center of Yellowstone National Park. It's accessible by car via the Grand Loop Road. Parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended. The closest entrances are the West Entrance and the North Entrance. Reddit

Yellowstone National Park does not offer extensive public transportation to specific geyser basins. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles or join guided tours. Consider a guided tour if you prefer not to drive or worry about parking. Reddit

The basin is navigated via well-maintained boardwalks, making it easy to explore. There are two main sections: the Porcelain Basin and the Back Basin. Follow the designated paths to stay safe and protect the fragile thermal features. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Norris Geyser Basin is located within Yellowstone National Park, which requires an entrance fee per vehicle. Once inside the park, there are no additional tickets needed to access the geyser basin itself. Reddit

Norris Geyser Basin is generally open from mid-April through mid-October, coinciding with the park's main operating season. Hours can vary slightly, so it's always best to check the official Yellowstone National Park website for the most current information. Reddit

No, Norris Geyser Basin is not accessible year-round. It is typically closed during the winter months due to snow and road closures. Access is usually limited to the warmer seasons, from spring to fall. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the vibrant Porcelain Basin with its numerous hot springs and fumaroles, and the Back Basin, home to the powerful Steamboat Geyser (the world's tallest active geyser) and Emerald Spring. The Museum of the National Park Ranger is also a great stop for context. Reddit

Most visitors spend between two to three hours exploring both the Porcelain Basin and the Back Basin. This allows ample time to walk the boardwalks, observe the thermal features, and visit the museum. Reddit

Yes, Norris Geyser Basin is generally suitable for children, as the boardwalks are easy to walk. However, it's crucial to keep children close and supervised at all times due to the hot springs and steep drop-offs. The steam can also be intense. Reddit

No, pets are not allowed on the boardwalks or trails within Norris Geyser Basin or any other geothermal areas in Yellowstone National Park. Service animals are permitted. Reddit

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be on boardwalks. Given the lack of shade, bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and a jacket, as temperatures can change quickly and steam can make it feel cooler or more humid. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant colors of the hot springs in the Porcelain Basin offer stunning photographic opportunities. The steam rising from the vents creates dramatic effects, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light. Capture the unique textures and patterns of the thermal features. Reddit

The steam can be a challenge, but it also adds to the otherworldly atmosphere. Try to frame your shots to include the steam in a way that enhances the image. Shooting during times with less direct sun can help reduce glare and improve contrast. Reddit

A polarizing filter can help cut through some of the glare from the water and steam. Consider using a wider lens to capture the expansive landscapes. For capturing the vibrant colors, ensure your white balance is set correctly or shoot in RAW format for post-processing flexibility. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Norris Geyser Basin offers a fascinating, albeit steamy, adventure for families. The easy-to-navigate boardwalks make it accessible for strollers and young walkers. The sheer visual spectacle of bubbling mud and colorful hot springs is captivating for children. Ensure constant supervision as the thermal features are extremely hot and drop-offs can be sudden. Bring plenty of snacks and water, as there are no services within the basin itself. The Museum of the National Park Ranger can also engage older children with its historical exhibits. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers, Norris Geyser Basin provides a chance for quiet contemplation amidst dramatic natural beauty. The well-marked boardwalks allow for independent exploration and photography. Consider an early morning visit to experience the basin with fewer people, offering a more intimate connection with the geothermal landscape. The museum is a great place to learn more about the area's geology and history at your own pace. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Norris's Geothermal Power

Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone's hottest and oldest thermal area, sitting atop a dynamic volcanic caldera. The temperatures here can reach extreme levels, with some thermal features exceeding boiling point. This intense geothermal activity is what creates the dramatic and ever-changing landscape of steaming vents, colorful hot springs, and bubbling mud pots. The unique chemistry of the water, rich in minerals and gases, contributes to the vibrant hues seen in the pools. Reddit

Visitors can explore two distinct areas: the Porcelain Basin and the Back Basin. The Porcelain Basin is a more open, visually striking area with a high concentration of thermal features visible from a central viewpoint. The Back Basin, on the other hand, is a larger, more wooded area with a greater variety of thermal features, including the impressive Steamboat Geyser, which is known for its infrequent but spectacular eruptions. Walking the boardwalks allows for safe observation of these powerful natural phenomena. Reddit

It's crucial to remember that these thermal areas are fragile and dangerous. Staying on the designated boardwalks is essential for both visitor safety and the preservation of the delicate microbial ecosystems that thrive in these extreme conditions. The steam can also create localized weather patterns, so be prepared for changes in temperature and humidity. Reddit

The Museum of the National Park Ranger

Before or after immersing yourself in the geothermal wonders of Norris Geyser Basin, a visit to the Museum of the National Park Ranger offers invaluable context. This small but informative museum provides insights into the history of park rangers, their role in conservation, and the scientific understanding of Yellowstone's unique geological features. It's a great place to learn about the ongoing research and preservation efforts within the park. Reddit

The exhibits often highlight the challenges and dedication of rangers throughout the park's history, from its establishment to modern-day management. You can learn about the geological forces that shape Yellowstone, including the supervolcano beneath Norris, and the importance of protecting these sensitive environments. It’s a perfect starting point for understanding the significance of what you’re about to see on the trails. Reddit

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