![]() ![]() The West Thumb Geyser Basin is the largest geyser basin by Yellowstone Lake and features points of interest such as the hot spring known as Fishing Cone and another hot spring called Abyss Pool.ĭespite its name, the Fishing Cone is not a place for fishing as the geyser has been known to erupt without warning. Sites within, like the Sulphur Cauldron, are exciting to witness from viewing points, but you’ll be grateful that access is denied: the Cauldron has the pH level of battery acid. Located on the eastern side of the park, the Mud Volcano geyser area is home to muddy hot springs and fumaroles. It’s the last major undammed river in the country and features both tranquil stretches and rapids. The Yellowstone River originates in the Absaroka Range of Wyoming before flowing through the national park, feeding Yellowstone Lake, and dropping into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You can reach the basin via a steep trail that extends one mile from the road. Here, you’ll discover a group of tall and narrow geyser cones, the largest of which is Monument Geyser. One of the smaller thermal areas in Yellowstone, Monument Geyser Basin is a hidden gem nestled at the south edge of Gibbon Meadows. ![]() The road is under frequent repair due to its proximity to geothermal activity, so check ahead to ensure it’s open. Other points of interest along the Grand Loop Road include White Dome Geyser and Firehole Lake, both of which can be accessed via the one-way side road known as Firehole Lake Drive. According to the National Park Service, hydrogen sulfide gas usually gives the geothermal mud pots their bubbling nature and particular odor. ![]() This trail takes hikers past one of the most active areas in the Lower Geyser Basin known as the Fountain Paint Pots. Fountain Paint Pot Nature Trailīy following Fountain Flat Drive, which also runs off the Grand Loop Road, you’ll come to the Fountain Paint Pot Nature Trail. The scenic falls are located on the side of the road just under 5 miles (7.6 kilometers) upstream from the confluence of the Gibbon and Firehole Rivers. On the stretch of road between Madison to the Norris Geyser Basin, you will find Gibbon Falls. You’ll be able to watch anglers fish in the river, as it’s one of the best fishing spots in the area.įirehole Canyon Drive is a one-way side road that runs off the Grand Loop Road, and this will take you past the Firehole River Falls and swimming area.īecause there is limited parking and Firehole Canyon Drive is so narrow, large vehicles and RVs are restricted. The Firehole River runs parallel with the Grand Loop Road for the first half of the stretch between Madison Junction and the exit for the Old Faithful Area. The spring features mesmerizing shades of orange, yellow, and blue, and is famous for being the largest hot spring in the country. Located in the Midway Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the most photographed and iconic sites in Yellowstone. This will bring you to one of the most treasured areas of the park: the Old Faithful Area.Īlong with the famous geyser and its boardwalks, you’ll discover restaurants, hotels, and a visitor center. The Grand Loop Road will take you to the Old Faithful exit. There are endless things to see and do along the route, including: The Old Faithful Area The Grand Loop Road is the primary way to see the main attractions of Yellowstone National Park. Running for 140 miles (230 kilometers), the Grand Loop Road passes through several of the most stunning locations in Yellowstone National Park and serves as the main route between the park’s main attractions.Īmong the most prominent places, you’ll pass through on the road include the Upper and Lower Geyser Basins, Monument Geyser Basin, West Thumb Geyser Basin, and Norris Geyser Basin. The most major junctions of the road are located at Mammoth Hot Springs, Madison, the West Thumb Geyser Basin, and the Roosevelt Lodge Historic District. The Grand Loop Road runs in an ovular loop shape and is directly served by U.S. In 1926, it became one of the first roads to be oiled in Wyoming, as the oiled surface was easier for visitors to drive upon than dirt or gravel. Chittenden of the US Army Corps of Engineers, as Yellowstone National Park was under military administration at the time.Īccording to Yellowstone Net, the Grand Loop Road was named in 1923 by the park’s publicist Harry W. The majority of the road was planned by Captain Hiram M. The Grand Loop Road was first constructed in 1915, but it wasn’t completed with paving until the 1940s. ![]() The Grand Loop Road connects the main highlights of Yellowstone National Park, making it one of the best ways to explore.Ĭurving in a figure eight, the road features the Lower Loop section and the Upper Loop section, both picturesque drives that pass an abundance of scenic natural sites. ![]()
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