Norris Back Basin

Norris Back Basin is a geothermal area in Yellowstone National Park, reached by a boardwalk loop through colorful hot springs, geysers and steam vents. The route passes Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest geyser, whose eruptions are unpredictable. You can take a shorter loop or follow the full trail, which runs about 1.75 miles. The landscape shifts between wooded stretches and open thermal ground, with bubbling pools and hissing vents along the way. Bring water and allow time to explore at a careful pace.

The boardwalk through Back Basin

Back Basin is one of the two loop areas at Norris Geyser Basin, alongside Porcelain Basin. Its trail passes through wooded sections and more open geothermal ground, with hot springs, smaller geysers and steam vents along the way.

The full Back Basin loop is about 1.75 miles. A shorter option visits Steamboat Geyser, Cistern Spring and Monarch Geyser. The boardwalk brings you close to the thermal features; stay on the designated route as you explore.

Steamboat Geyser and the thermal features

Steamboat Geyser is the standout stop on this route. It is the world’s tallest geyser, but its eruptions are unpredictable, so seeing one is not something to plan a visit around. The basin has many other features to observe, including colorful pools and vents that send steam into the air.

The changing mix of wooded trail and exposed geothermal ground gives the loop a varied feel. For more context on what you are seeing, stop at the visitor center before setting out. Bring water and snacks, since facilities in this remote area are limited.