
Norris Geyser Basin
Yellowstone's hottest and oldest thermal area, featuring the dramatic Porcelain and Back Basins with powerful geysers and colorful hot springs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Norris Geyser Basin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yellowstone's hottest and oldest thermal area, featuring the dramatic Porcelain and Back Basins with powerful geysers and colorful hot springs.
"A symphony of hot springs, Norris is a top-tier geothermal wonder with awesome views."

Bring Water & Sunscreen
No shade here! Stay hydrated and protected from the sun on the exposed boardwalks. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Allow 2-3 Hours
Take your time to explore both the Porcelain and Back Basins for the full experience. :stopwatch:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Porcelain Basin
North section
A surreal landscape of steaming vents and colorful hot springs, offering a panoramic view of geothermal activity.

Back Basin
South section
Explore diverse thermal features, including the powerful Steamboat Geyser, the world's tallest active geyser.

Museum of the National Park Ranger
Entrance area
Gain insights into the history and science of Yellowstone's geothermal wonders before or after your walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Norris
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Geyser Basin in the evening?
Bring Water & Sunscreen
No shade here! Stay hydrated and protected from the sun on the exposed boardwalks. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Allow 2-3 Hours
Take your time to explore both the Porcelain and Back Basins for the full experience. :stopwatch:
Norris Geyser Basin. Worth it?
Visiting the Geyser Basins
Comfortable Walking Shoes
The boardwalks are easy, but you'll be doing a lot of walking. :athletic_shoe:
Check Geyser Activity
Ask rangers about recent Steamboat Geyser eruptions for a chance to witness its power. :mag:
5 Tips for Yellowstone- July 2021
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Water & Sunscreen
No shade here! Stay hydrated and protected from the sun on the exposed boardwalks. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Allow 2-3 Hours
Take your time to explore both the Porcelain and Back Basins for the full experience. :stopwatch:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
The boardwalks are easy, but you'll be doing a lot of walking. :athletic_shoe:
Check Geyser Activity
Ask rangers about recent Steamboat Geyser eruptions for a chance to witness its power. :mag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Norris Geyser Basin is lauded for its unique and powerful geothermal activity, offering a symphony of hot springs and geysers. Visitors appreciate the easy boardwalks and the educational museum. However, some note that the Porcelain Basin has less water than in the past, and it can get quite crowded.
"Symphony of hot springs,in my ranking, Norris can be ranked in the top 4 of Yellowstone's geothermal phenomena.
1. Old Faithful Geyser Group, 2. Grand Prismatic, 3. West Thumb Hot Springs."
J Adventured
"There are two parts: north porcelain basin and south back basin. Plan to spend two to three hours to finish the trails. Easy boardwalk, no shades, bring plenty of water when walking among the steams. Awesome views."
Susan Ding
"Norris Geyser Basin is one of my favorite places to visit in Yellowstone Park. I normally skip the Porcelain Basin because you can see most of it from the hill. Used to have a lot more water there."
Rara Bee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Norris Geyser Basin is located in the center of Yellowstone National Park. It's accessible by car via the Grand Loop Road. Parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended. The closest entrances are the West Entrance and the North Entrance.
Yellowstone National Park does not offer extensive public transportation to specific geyser basins. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles or join guided tours. Consider a guided tour if you prefer not to drive or worry about parking.
The basin is navigated via well-maintained boardwalks, making it easy to explore. There are two main sections: the Porcelain Basin and the Back Basin. Follow the designated paths to stay safe and protect the fragile thermal features.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Norris Geyser Basin is located within Yellowstone National Park, which requires an entrance fee per vehicle. Once inside the park, there are no additional tickets needed to access the geyser basin itself.
Norris Geyser Basin is generally open from mid-April through mid-October, coinciding with the park's main operating season. Hours can vary slightly, so it's always best to check the official Yellowstone National Park website for the most current information.
No, Norris Geyser Basin is not accessible year-round. It is typically closed during the winter months due to snow and road closures. Access is usually limited to the warmer seasons, from spring to fall.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the vibrant Porcelain Basin with its numerous hot springs and fumaroles, and the Back Basin, home to the powerful Steamboat Geyser (the world's tallest active geyser) and Emerald Spring. The Museum of the National Park Ranger is also a great stop for context.
Most visitors spend between two to three hours exploring both the Porcelain Basin and the Back Basin. This allows ample time to walk the boardwalks, observe the thermal features, and visit the museum.
Yes, Norris Geyser Basin is generally suitable for children, as the boardwalks are easy to walk. However, it's crucial to keep children close and supervised at all times due to the hot springs and steep drop-offs. The steam can also be intense.
No, pets are not allowed on the boardwalks or trails within Norris Geyser Basin or any other geothermal areas in Yellowstone National Park. Service animals are permitted.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be on boardwalks. Given the lack of shade, bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and a jacket, as temperatures can change quickly and steam can make it feel cooler or more humid.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant colors of the hot springs in the Porcelain Basin offer stunning photographic opportunities. The steam rising from the vents creates dramatic effects, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light. Capture the unique textures and patterns of the thermal features.
The steam can be a challenge, but it also adds to the otherworldly atmosphere. Try to frame your shots to include the steam in a way that enhances the image. Shooting during times with less direct sun can help reduce glare and improve contrast.
A polarizing filter can help cut through some of the glare from the water and steam. Consider using a wider lens to capture the expansive landscapes. For capturing the vibrant colors, ensure your white balance is set correctly or shoot in RAW format for post-processing flexibility.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Norris's Geothermal Power
Visitors can explore two distinct areas: the Porcelain Basin and the Back Basin. The Porcelain Basin is a more open, visually striking area with a high concentration of thermal features visible from a central viewpoint. The Back Basin, on the other hand, is a larger, more wooded area with a greater variety of thermal features, including the impressive Steamboat Geyser, which is known for its infrequent but spectacular eruptions. Walking the boardwalks allows for safe observation of these powerful natural phenomena.
It's crucial to remember that these thermal areas are fragile and dangerous. Staying on the designated boardwalks is essential for both visitor safety and the preservation of the delicate microbial ecosystems that thrive in these extreme conditions. The steam can also create localized weather patterns, so be prepared for changes in temperature and humidity.
The Museum of the National Park Ranger
The exhibits often highlight the challenges and dedication of rangers throughout the park's history, from its establishment to modern-day management. You can learn about the geological forces that shape Yellowstone, including the supervolcano beneath Norris, and the importance of protecting these sensitive environments. It’s a perfect starting point for understanding the significance of what you’re about to see on the trails.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit