Observation Point Old Faithful
Witness the iconic, predictable eruption of Old Faithful geyser and explore a vibrant geothermal wonderland.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Observation Point Old Faithful
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the iconic, predictable eruption of Old Faithful geyser and explore a vibrant geothermal wonderland.
"What an incredible experience watching ol’ faithful erupt. Magnificent viewing from the beautiful platform the state park provides."
Check Eruption Times
Consult the visitor center or NPS app for predicted eruption times to plan your visit. :iphone:
Arrive Early for Seats
For the best viewing spots, arrive at least 30-60 minutes before the predicted eruption. :seat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old Faithful Eruption
Old Faithful Geyser
Witness the iconic, powerful eruption of Old Faithful, a must-see natural spectacle.
Observation Point Views
Observation Point Trail
Gain panoramic vistas of Old Faithful and the surrounding geyser basin from this elevated viewpoint.
Geyser Basin Boardwalks
Old Faithful Geyser Basin
Explore the unique geothermal landscape with bubbling pools and steaming vents along accessible boardwalks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respect the Geothermal Area
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Making the Most of Old Faithful Inn
Check Eruption Times
Consult the visitor center or NPS app for predicted eruption times to plan your visit. :iphone:
Arrive Early for Seats
For the best viewing spots, arrive at least 30-60 minutes before the predicted eruption. :seat:
How to see Old Faithful and the pools? (noob)
Best time to visit Old Faithful.
Stay on Boardwalks
Protect the fragile environment and your safety by staying on designated paths. :athletic_shoe:
Evening Serenity
Experience Old Faithful with fewer people and a more tranquil ambiance in the evening. :moon:
Checking into Old Faithful for one night from Jackson, WY. What attractions can I hit while at Old Faithful that require no driving?
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Eruption Times
Consult the visitor center or NPS app for predicted eruption times to plan your visit. :iphone:
Arrive Early for Seats
For the best viewing spots, arrive at least 30-60 minutes before the predicted eruption. :seat:
Stay on Boardwalks
Protect the fragile environment and your safety by staying on designated paths. :athletic_shoe:
Evening Serenity
Experience Old Faithful with fewer people and a more tranquil ambiance in the evening. :moon:
Pack Snacks & Water
Bring your own refreshments as options can be limited and lines long. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the iconic eruption of Old Faithful, describing it as a magnificent and incredible experience. The surrounding geyser basin and the views from Observation Point are also highly praised. Some reviewers noted that crowds can be substantial, and restroom placement could be improved.
"Beautiful view of Old faithful and the whole area! Had to get on to some kid that was knocking rocks off from up high while there were numerous people below him."
Joshua Thurman
"The periodic geysers in Yellowstone operate through a delicate balance of hydrothermal dynamics, pressure, and heat transfer in a volcanic setting. Meteoric water infiltrates through highly fractured rhyolitic tuff and other porous volcanic rocks, accumulating in subsurface reservoirs. These reservoirs are located above the Yellowstone Caldera’s active magmatic system, which maintains a geothermal gradient significantly higher than continental averages. As water percolates deeper, it is heated well beyond its boiling point due to lithostatic and hydrostatic pressure, creating a metastable, superheated liquid phase.
Eventually, minor perturbations—such as nucleation at rough surfaces or pressure drops caused by degassing—initiate localized boiling. The resulting steam rapidly expands, forcing water upward through narrow, siliceous sinter-lined conduits. This pressure release triggers a positive feedback loop: steam expansion reduces confining pressure, causing deeper water to flash into vapor, amplifying the eruption. The discharge continues until sufficient thermal and hydraulic energy is expended, leading to a pressure drop and collapse of the steam phase.
Post-eruption, the system undergoes a recharge phase involving both hydraulic refilling and conductive heat transfer from surrounding rock. The periodicity of geyser eruptions is governed by variables such as reservoir geometry, conduit constriction, permeability anisotropy, and heat flux—yielding a quasi-cyclic yet sometimes chaotic behavior characteristic of geyser systems."
Ed Chen
"What an incredible experience watching ol’ faithful erupt. Magnificent viewing from the beautiful platform the state park provides."
Stacey Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Faithful is located in the southwestern part of Yellowstone National Park. You can drive to the Old Faithful area, which has designated parking. Shuttle services are not typically available directly to Old Faithful itself, but the park has a shuttle system connecting various points within the park during peak season. Check the official Yellowstone National Park website for the most current transportation information and road conditions.
Yes, there is a large parking area near the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. Arriving early in the day or during less crowded times is recommended.
Public transportation options directly to Old Faithful are limited. The primary way to access it is by private vehicle. Some tour operators may offer guided trips that include Old Faithful.
Once you're at Old Faithful, the best way to explore the surrounding geyser basin is by walking the extensive boardwalk system. This allows you to safely view numerous geothermal features. The Observation Point trail offers elevated views.
Yes, Yellowstone National Park has an entrance fee per vehicle, which is valid for seven days. You can purchase passes at any park entrance station or online in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, seeing Old Faithful erupt is a natural phenomenon and does not require a ticket. Access to the viewing area is free. However, you will need to pay the park entrance fee to enter Yellowstone National Park.
Old Faithful erupts year-round, and the viewing area is always accessible. The Visitor Education Center has specific operating hours, which vary by season. It's best to check the official Yellowstone National Park website for the most up-to-date information.
The cost to visit Old Faithful is the Yellowstone National Park entrance fee. As of recent information, this is typically around $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Check the NPS website for current pricing.
You can purchase Yellowstone National Park passes at any entrance station upon arrival or in advance online through the official NPS website. Buying in advance can save time at the entrance.
The Old Faithful Visitor Education Center offers ranger programs and exhibits. While not requiring separate tickets, these programs enhance the visitor experience. Check the visitor center schedule for program times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
An Old Faithful eruption typically lasts between 1.5 to 5 minutes, though this can vary. The height of the water can reach up to 184 feet.
Old Faithful erupts approximately every 60 to 110 minutes. The National Park Service provides predicted eruption times at the Visitor Education Center and on their website.
The most popular viewing spots are the benches and open areas directly in front of the geyser. For a less crowded experience with a good view, consider the back pathway or the Observation Point trail.
The Observation Point trail is a moderate hike, approximately 1.1 miles roundtrip, with some elevation gain. It offers fantastic panoramic views of Old Faithful and the surrounding geyser basin. Wear comfortable shoes.
Yes, there are restrooms located in the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center and other facilities nearby. Some visitors have noted the visitor center restrooms can be congested after an eruption.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining facilities available at the Old Faithful Inn and the Old Faithful Snow Lodge, offering various options from casual to more formal dining.
Dining options typically include American cuisine, with choices like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more substantial entrees. Options can vary seasonally.
Dining within national parks can be pricier than outside. It's advisable to check menus and prices online or at the establishments beforehand. Bringing your own snacks and picnic lunch can be a more budget-friendly option.
Yes, there are picnic areas available in the vicinity of Old Faithful, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty.
There is a general store located near the Old Faithful Inn that sells a variety of groceries, snacks, and convenience items. However, selection may be limited and prices higher than in larger towns.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Mid-day sun can be harsh. Consider the steam plume against different sky conditions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the geyser and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the eruption from a distance. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing steam.
The main viewing area offers classic shots. For unique perspectives, try the Observation Point trail for elevated views, or explore the boardwalks for close-ups of other geothermal features.
No, drone operations are strictly prohibited in Yellowstone National Park, including at Old Faithful, to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
Experiment with different shutter speeds. A faster shutter speed can freeze the water droplets, while a slower one can create a more ethereal steam effect. Ensure you have good contrast between the steam and the background.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to stay on the boardwalks and explain the importance of respecting the geothermal environment. Bringing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as waiting for eruptions can build an appetite. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like early mornings or evenings, to make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. The Observation Point trail might be a bit challenging for very young children, but older kids will likely enjoy the hike and the views.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Instead of staying at the historic lodges, consider camping in one of the park's campgrounds or looking for more affordable lodging in gateway towns outside the park. Utilize the free ranger programs offered at the Visitor Education Center for educational entertainment. Walking the boardwalks and hiking to Observation Point are free activities that offer incredible experiences.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different shutter speeds to capture the water spray or the ethereal quality of the steam. A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the grandeur of the geyser and basin, while a telephoto lens can isolate details of the eruption. Consider a tripod for stability, especially in lower light. The Observation Point trail offers a unique elevated perspective for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Old Faithful's Eruptions
The periodicity of Old Faithful's eruptions is not perfectly consistent, varying between 60 to 110 minutes. Factors like the amount of water in the system and minor seismic activity can influence the timing. The National Park Service provides predicted eruption times, which are remarkably accurate, allowing visitors to plan their viewing. These predictions are based on historical data and ongoing monitoring of the geyser's behavior.
Witnessing an eruption is a core experience for many visitors. The sheer power and beauty of the water and steam shooting skyward are awe-inspiring. It's a stark reminder of the dynamic geological forces at play within Yellowstone, making it a truly unforgettable natural spectacle.
Exploring the Geyser Basin
As you wander the boardwalks, you'll encounter features like the 'Morning Glory Pool,' famous for its stunning blue center and colorful outer rings, though its beauty has been marred by visitor littering. Other notable features include the 'Grand Geyser,' which is larger but less predictable than Old Faithful, and the 'Castle Geyser,' with its impressive cone-shaped sinter formation. The air is often filled with the distinct scent of sulfur, a characteristic of these active geothermal areas.
It's crucial to remember that the ground in these areas is fragile and can be dangerous. Staying on the designated boardwalks is essential for both your safety and the preservation of the delicate ecosystem. The steam rising from the ground can also obscure your path, so always be aware of your surroundings.
The Observation Point Hike
From Observation Point, you get a panoramic view that truly showcases the scale of the geothermal area. You can see Old Faithful erupting from above, with the surrounding landscape stretching out before you. This vantage point is particularly good for photographers looking for a broader composition or for those who want to appreciate the geyser's activity within its wider context.
While the hike is not overly strenuous, it does involve an incline, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The trail is well-maintained, but be mindful of the elevation and potential for changing weather conditions. It's a great option for those seeking a slightly more active experience and a unique photographic opportunity.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit