Norris Geyser Basin Trail

Hike Through Yellowstone's Hottest Thermal Area

Interpretive Trail on Gray Lakes, Nuphar Lake, Sieve Lake, Tantalus Creek in Yellowstone NP, Rocky Mountains near Canyon Village, WY

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Length

2.8mi

Surface

Boardwalk (1.4mi)

Dirt (1¼mi)

Pavement (783ft)

Allows ATVs

Allows Bikes

Allows Hiking

Yes

Allows Horses

Allows Nordic Skiing

The Norris Geyser Basin Trail is a boardwalk through Yellowstone’s hottest thermal area, which is home to Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest geyser. The trail has two main loops: the Porcelain Basin loop, and the Back Basin loop. Each has a multitude of hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles.

Snowy conditions at Norris Geyser Basin on October 25, 2020, Aston Hooker (NPS) photograph above.

Walking out to Steamboat Geyser, Jacob W. Frank (NPS) photograph above.

Accessibility (NPS)

Visitors using wheelchairs can see the steam and colors of Porcelain Basin from the Norris Museum. Emerald Pool, Steamboat and Echinus geysers are nearby and are accessible with assistance. Wheelchair travel into Porcelain and Back basins is difficult due to stairs, steep inclines, uneven ground, and changes in trail surface. Visitors using manual wheelchairs may require assistance; motorized wheelchairs may not have enough power. Consult the area trail guide or ask a ranger to recommend routes.

Due to rough terrain, expect steep grades that exceed 8% and uneven ground where rocks and roots protrude into the trail. Most of these sections are marked on the Norris Geyser Basin Trail Guide map, but may change. Use caution.