Old Faithful is a cone geyser in the Upper Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park, in Wyoming. Its eruptions send boiling water high above the basin, usually about every 90 minutes, though the timing can shift. Check the predicted eruption time at the visitor center, then watch from the seating area. Stay longer to walk the basin’s boardwalks past hot springs, steam vents and smaller geysers. The famous geyser draws a crowd, especially in summer, so an early visit can make for a quieter walk.
A geyser with a changing timetable
Old Faithful is a cone geyser in the Upper Geyser Basin, on the southwest side of Yellowstone’s scenic loop. It was named in 1870 for its frequent, relatively predictable eruptions. The geyser is one of the park’s best-known thermal features, but it is not the tallest or most regular geyser in Yellowstone.
Eruptions usually come around every 90 minutes, but the interval varies. Park staff post a predicted time, generally within a window of about 10 minutes. Check the latest estimate at the visitor center before settling in. The geyser can send water more than 100 feet into the air, with some eruptions reaching higher. An eruption lasts only a few minutes, so the posted estimate helps you plan your wait rather than assume a fixed schedule.
Watching the eruption
The viewing area has benches and room to watch from a designated spot. It is one of the busiest places in the park, particularly in summer, and seats can fill before an expected eruption. Arriving early gives you more choice about where to stand or sit. Rangers may share information about the geyser and nearby thermal features.
The spectacle is brief; the wait and the walk through the basin are part of the visit. Bring water and sun protection, especially if you expect to wait outside. Binoculars can be useful for looking across the area. If the crowd around the main viewing area feels too dense, the Observation Point Trail gives a higher view of Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin.
Explore the Upper Geyser Basin
Allow time after the eruption to follow the basin’s boardwalks past hot springs, steam vents and other geysers. A flat loop trail runs for about four miles, though you can turn back before completing it. Morning Glory Pool is a stopping point about 1.5 miles along the route. Smaller geysers in the area include Castle, Grotto, Riverside and Daisy.
Stay on marked boardwalks and paths throughout the thermal area. Some boardwalk sections have no rails, and the ground beyond them is not a safe place to walk. The basin is a larger part of the visit than the single eruption: a longer stroll brings more of its varied colors, shapes and geothermal activity into view.
Preguntas frecuentes
How often does Old Faithful erupt?
Eruptions usually occur about every 90 minutes, but the interval varies. Check the predicted time at the visitor center before you wait.
How long should I spend at Old Faithful?
Plan on 1 to 2 hours to watch an eruption and explore part of the Upper Geyser Basin. The loop trail is about four miles, so walking it all takes longer.
Is there more to see than the geyser?
Yes. Boardwalks lead past hot springs, steam vents and smaller geysers, and the Observation Point Trail offers a higher view of the basin.
Is Old Faithful crowded?
The viewing area is especially busy in summer, and seats can fill before an eruption. Arriving early can give you more choice of viewing spot.
