Field Notes: Exploring the Wonders of West Thumb Geyser Basin in Yellowstone.
I'm an affiliate, meaning I partner with brands and earn a commission if you purchase through the links on my site. This helps support Overland Girl.
Discover the Geothermal Marvels of West Thumb Geyser Basin.
West Thumb Geyser Basin sits alongside Yellowstone Lake in Wyoming. The West Thumb Geyser Basin is a captivating testament to the geothermal wonders that define Yellowstone National Park. This attraction is a unique blend of hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles set against the backdrop of North America's largest high-altitude lake. With its vibrant Thumb Paint Pots, the famous Fishing Cone, and other geothermal features, West Thumb provides a rare glimpse into the Earth's dynamic and ever-changing thermal landscape. As one ventures along the boardwalk trails, the juxtaposition of natural beauty and geothermal activity creates an immersive and awe-inspiring encounter. We saw bison roaming through this area. You will get a great sense of the smell of these features.
West Thumb Geyser Basin
Where is West Thumb Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park?
It is situated on the western shore of Yellowstone Lake in the Grant Village area. The West Thumb area is approximately 17 miles north of the South Entrance and is accessible by the Grand Loop Road, which circles much of the park.
Exploring the Geothermal Features of West Thumb.
The West Thumb Geyser Basin features various hydrothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles. Here is a complete list of what you will see within the West Thumb Geyser Basin:
Black Pool: A hot spring known for its deep, dark blue color.
Thumb Geyser: A geyser near the Fishing Cone that can erupt with bursts of water.
Fishing Cone: A famous hot spring located on the shore of Yellowstone Lake, historically used for cooking fish caught in the lake.
Percolating Springs: Areas where water bubbles up through the lake bottom, creating boiling features.
Seismograph Pool: A hot spring with vivid colors, often exhibiting seismic activity influencing its water level.
Surprise Pool: A hot spring known for its beauty and intricate microbial formations.
Cave Spring: A thermal feature characterized by a cave-like opening with hot water flowing out.
Delta Geyser: A small geyser located near the lake shore.
Big Cone: A thermal feature with a large cone-shaped structure.
Blue Funnel Spring: A hot spring with a distinctive blue color.
Geyser Hill: While not a specific feature, Geyser Hill is a general area where various geysers and hot springs are located.
Crater Hills: Low hills formed by the explosion of steam and gas beneath the Earth's surface.
Top Geothermal Attractions in West Thumb Geyser Basin If you don’t have time to see them all, here are some popular geysers and features within the West Thumb Geyser Basin:
Black Pool: A large hot spring known for its deep blue color. It is one of the visually stunning features in the West Thumb area. The temperature of Black Pool is around 131°F (55°C).
Lakeshore Geyser: Located near the shore of Yellowstone Lake, Lakeshore Geyser is known for its frequent eruptions. Its unique setting has eruptions along the lakeshore, offering a picturesque view.
Pots Pool: A hot spring characterized by its bubbling and boiling water. The water in Pots Pool can reach temperatures around 204°F (95°C).
Black Cone Geyser: A distinctive cone-shaped geyser that occasionally erupts. It is known for its dark-colored cone, contrasting with the surrounding landscape.
Thumb Paint Pots: Thumb Paint Pots are a collection of mud pots and hot springs with a lower pH that causes the water to be acidic. The mud pots in this area create a bubbling and popping mud-like substance.
Surprise Pool: Surprise Pool is a hot spring with temperatures around 188°F (87°C). It is named for its unpredictable and occasionally eruptive behavior.
Blue Funnel Spring: Blue Funnel Spring is a hot spring with a deep blue color caused by minerals in the water. The temperature of Blue Funnel Spring is approximately 188°F (87°C).
Abyss Pool, West Thumb Geyser Basin | Yellowstone National Park
In the News: The Abyss Pool
While we were there, unbeknownst to us, the Black Pool would be in the news. After the news story of a foot floating in the pool broke on August 16, 2022, we went back through our photos to see if we could see anything. We were there on August 7. This leads me to our next topic. Don’t touch and stay on the walk paths.
Stay Safe: Guidelines for Visiting West Thumb Geyser Basin.
Guidelines for West Thumb: Don’t Touch!
You would not believe the people who do not follow the below. While we were there, I saw a person put their finger into the Prismatic Spring. Please don’t be that person. The below is why:
Stay on Designated Paths and Boardwalks: Always stay on established trails, boardwalks, and designated areas to protect visitors and the fragile geothermal features. The ground in these areas can be thin and delicate, and walking off the paths can cause damage.
Do Not Touch or Disturb the Features: Avoid touching or disturbing the thermal features. Human contact can easily damage the high temperatures of the water and the fragile microbial mats.
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from all thermal features. The boiling water and steam can cause severe burns, and the ground may be unstable.
Observe Wildlife Safely: If you encounter wildlife, stay safe and do not feed them. Wildlife can be unpredictable, and feeding them can lead to dangerous situations for animals and visitors.n, lead to dangerous situations for animals and visitors.
Be Bear Aware: If you're in bear country, carry bear spray, make noise, and be aware of your surroundings. Follow guidelines for bear safety. Purchase your bear spray.
Walking on the boardwalk at West Thumb Geyser Basin.
Understanding the Heat: Temperatures in West Thumb Geyser Basin.
Here is an idea of how hot it gets in here: HOT! VERY HOT!
Geysers: The erupting water from geysers can reach temperatures near or above the boiling point, typically ranging from 160°F (71°C) to 200°F (93°C) or even higher.
Hot Springs: The temperatures of hot springs in West Thumb can range from around 130°F (54°C) to 199°F (93°C) or more, depending on the specific spring.
Mud Pots: Mud pots comprise hot, acidic water and clay. The temperatures in mud pots can range from 140°F (60°C) to 200°F (93°C) or higher.
Fumaroles and Steam Vents: These features emit steam and gases at temperatures exceeding 199°F (93°C), but they may not have visible water.
How Long Does It Take to Explore West Thumb Geyser Basin?
The time it takes to explore West Thumb Geyser Basin can vary depending on several factors, including your pace, interest in the features, and whether you plan to take a stroll or delve into more detailed exploration. On average, many visitors spend approximately 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the boardwalks and viewing the various geothermal features in West Thumb. However, if you have a particular interest in the geothermal features, enjoy photography, or plan to take breaks to appreciate the scenery, you might choose to spend more time.
Lakeshore Geyser
Is It Worth Visiting West Thumb Geyser Basin? Absolutely!
These features in Yellowstone made our top ten must-see in Yellowstone. You can’t beat the view of Lake Yellowstone as you walk around the area. You also understand all the different features you can see in Yellowstone. Also, there are features within the lake to visit. Read our full article, Your Guide to the Top 10 Attractions at Yellowstone National Park to learn more.
Fishing Cone
Travel Tip: Don’t Miss a Thing With Guide Along.
Here's one of my favorite travel tips - GuideAlong - Audio Tours App. We would have missed so much without it! You'll hear stories, local tips & directions play automatically based on your location. Best of all, they don't need a cell signal; they work offline with GPS. And your tour guide has a fantastic voice. You can learn more here: Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks.
Conclusion: Plan Your Perfect Trip to Yellowstone National Park.
Exploring the West Thumb Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park is an unforgettable experience that showcases the incredible geothermal features of the region. From the deep blue Black Pool to the bubbling Thumb Paint Pots and the historic Fishing Cone, the diverse and vibrant attractions offer a glimpse into the dynamic forces shaping this extraordinary landscape.
When planning your visit, remember to stay safe by adhering to the guidelines, stay on designated paths, and respect the natural wonders and wildlife. Enhancing your trip with tools like the GuideAlong Audio Tours App and capturing memories with your passport stamp book can add to the enjoyment and ensure you don't miss any highlights.
With its unique geothermal features set against the stunning backdrop of Yellowstone Lake, the West Thumb Geyser Basin is undoubtedly a must-see destination in Yellowstone National Park. So, map out your adventure, prepare for the awe-inspiring sights, and enjoy all that Yellowstone has to offer.
For more tips and detailed guides on exploring Yellowstone, check out our related articles and plan your visit to make the most of this extraordinary park.
Check Out Our Other Blogs and YouTube Videos on Yellowstone.
Your Ultimate Guide to the Top Ten Must-Sees at Yellowstone National Park.
Discover Yellowstone’s Norris Geyser Basin: A Journey Through Geothermal Wonders.
Explore the Beauty and Color of Midway Geyser Basin, Yellowstone.
Passport To Your National Parks: A Traveler's Must-Have for National Parks
YouTube: Take a walk with us through Yellowstone's Midway Geyser Basin - home to Grand Prismatic Spring.
