West Thumb Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Length: less than a mile
GPS Coordinates: N 44 24.941 W 110 34.419
West Thumb Geyser Basin is a popular destination among tourists because it sits right on the shore of Yellowstone Lake. This area was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago and is called the West Thumb caldera.
It should be mentioned that this geyser basin is the largest one along the lake, most of geothermal features are located under the water of the lake. Daily, 3,100 gallons of hot water are poured into the lake by these “hidden” geysers. The temperature of the geysers is very high and the heat can melt the ice.
It’s not recommended visiting this area in spring when there is the highest water level, summer is the best time to see the geysers that are “hidden” during spring. This area is a must-visit place not only because the “hidden” and usual thermal features, but also scenic Yellowstone Lake. A well-maintained boardwalk will take you into the heart of the Yellowstone’s beauty.
The trail is very easy and accessible; it takes tourists to the shore of the lake and back.
The most famous features of this area are: Fishing Cone, Black Pool and Abyss Pool, Lone Pine Geyser, Hillside Geyser, Lakeshore Geyser, Twin Geyser and more.
Fishing Cone is one of the most popular and famous geysers. Rangers tell that in the old days fishermen used to stand near geysers and fish for cutthroat trout. If they’d caught a fish, they would immediately cook it in the hot water of the geyser. But follow the rules, and do it! It’s forbidden to throw anything in the geyser, because these objects may destroy them.
Lone Pine Geyser is the largest geyser at the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Because of its proximity, this spot is a popular destination, especially during the eruption. Eruptions can reach 75 feet in height.
Hillside Geyser is an infrequent cone-type geyser. It was active in the late 90’s.
Blue Funnel Spring is a beautiful thermal feature with nice color of the water. Blue color of the reservoir attracts many tourists. It’s very beautiful because the color becomes more intense in the center and light blue on the edge.
Twin Geyser is a major geyser in the area that shoots water up to 75-100 feet in height. It erupts from two vents that are located close to each other.
Black Pool and Abyss Pool are beautiful hot springs in the area. Black Pool’s color is turquoise, and Abyss Pool is emerald, it’s very deep and has a name that really suits.
Photo: Roman Khomlyak
Photo Editing: Juliana Voitsikhovska
Information: Maryna Petrova
Pictures taken: 30.06.2016
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