Black Sand Basin Yellowstone
A vibrant geothermal wonderland near Old Faithful, featuring colorful hot springs, active geysers, and unique obsidian sand.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, dramatic steam
Black Sand Basin Yellowstone
Best Time
Fewer crowds, dramatic steam
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant geothermal wonderland near Old Faithful, featuring colorful hot springs, active geysers, and unique obsidian sand.
"One of the most underrated basins in the park! Beautiful pools, easy parking and no crowds!"
🚗 Easy Parking
Parking is usually easy to find, even for larger vehicles.
🚶♀️ Stay on Boardwalks
Protect the fragile ecosystem and avoid burns by staying on designated paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cliff Geyser
Boardwalk loop
Frequent, forceful eruptions make this small geyser a captivating spectacle. Watch it sputter and steam!
Rainbow Pool
Boardwalk loop
Vivid rings of color showcase the beauty of heat-loving thermophiles in this stunning hot spring.
Obsidian Sand
Throughout the basin
Discover the unique black volcanic glass scattered across the basin, a fascinating geological feature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Black Sand Basin
Embrace the Colors and Geology
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Thoughts on parking when trying to see multiple springs/geysers in one day?
🚗 Easy Parking
Parking is usually easy to find, even for larger vehicles.
🚶♀️ Stay on Boardwalks
Protect the fragile ecosystem and avoid burns by staying on designated paths.
Itinerary advise for first timers
Heading to Yellowstone only for 2-3 days, what to see?
📸 Photography Gold
The vibrant colors and steam create stunning photo opportunities, especially in cooler weather.
🧐 Educational Signs
Learn about the unique ecosystem and geology from informative signs.
Tips for visiting yellowstone?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Parking
Parking is usually easy to find, even for larger vehicles.
🚶♀️ Stay on Boardwalks
Protect the fragile ecosystem and avoid burns by staying on designated paths.
📸 Photography Gold
The vibrant colors and steam create stunning photo opportunities, especially in cooler weather.
🧐 Educational Signs
Learn about the unique ecosystem and geology from informative signs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Black Sand Basin's stunning, vibrant colors and frequent geyser activity, often calling it an underrated gem near Old Faithful. The easy boardwalk and accessible parking are frequently praised, making it a delightful and educational stop for all. Some note it's less crowded than other major Yellowstone attractions.
"This place looks absolutely stunning! The vibrant colors of the thermal pool, surrounded by the serene forest and rugged mountains, create a breathtaking natural scene. The informative sign about the unique ecosystem, including the fascinating spider and microbial life, adds an educational and intriguing element. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers, with a clear warning to preserve its beauty by not throwing objects into the pools. A truly remarkable destination!"
DESMONT
"One of the most underrated basins in the park! Beautiful pools, easy parking and no crowds! The first geyser you see upon crossing the boardwalk from the parking lot is Cliff Geyser. The activity of Cliff Geyser is frequent, forceful and fun to watch. With a number of very active smaller holes around it, you can spend 5-10 minutes at this one alone. It will not disappoint! The rest of the basin is filled with colorful and intriguing pools and springs, which feed into the nearby river."
Dierdre Lehman
"Great place to visit near Old Faithful. You can walk up right next to the bubbling water holes. Sunset Lake and Rainbow pool were wonderful"
Pradeep Dixit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Sand Basin is conveniently located just west of Old Faithful. You can drive there and find parking, making it an easy stop on your Yellowstone itinerary.
Yes, Black Sand Basin is accessible by car. There is a parking area near the boardwalk entrance.
Driving is the most common method. The two locations are very close, making it a quick trip.
Yellowstone's primary transportation is by personal vehicle. While there are some shuttle services within specific areas, direct shuttles to Black Sand Basin from other park points are not common.
While they are geographically close, walking directly between Old Faithful and Black Sand Basin is not recommended due to road traffic and lack of a direct pedestrian path. Driving is the best option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Black Sand Basin is within Yellowstone National Park, which requires a park entrance fee. Once inside the park, access to Black Sand Basin is free.
Black Sand Basin is accessible year-round during park operating hours. However, access may be limited during severe winter weather.
The only fee required is the standard Yellowstone National Park entrance fee. Black Sand Basin itself does not have a separate admission charge.
Tickets are not required for Black Sand Basin. You only need to pay the park entrance fee, which can be purchased at any park entrance station or online in advance.
It's recommended to purchase your Yellowstone National Park entrance pass in advance online to save time at the entrance station, especially during peak season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Black Sand Basin features colorful hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and several active geysers like Cliff Geyser. The unique black obsidian sand is also a notable feature.
A visit to Black Sand Basin typically takes about 30-60 minutes to walk the boardwalk loop and observe the thermal features.
Yes, the boardwalk at Black Sand Basin is generally flat and easy to navigate, making it accessible for most visitors.
Restroom facilities are typically available near the parking area at Black Sand Basin.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as temperatures can change quickly in Yellowstone.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire boardwalk loop offers great photo opportunities. Focus on the vibrant colors of Rainbow Pool and the steam from Cliff Geyser.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and dramatic steam, especially in cooler weather.
You can take close-up photos from the boardwalk, but always maintain a safe distance and never throw anything into the features.
Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water and enhance colors. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or capturing steam.
No, drone usage is prohibited in all national parks, including Yellowstone, for safety and wildlife protection.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to keep children close and on the boardwalk at all times, as the thermal features are extremely hot and dangerous. Parking is generally easy, making it a stress-free addition to your day, especially if you're visiting the nearby Old Faithful area. Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited within the basin itself.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and more dramatic steam effects. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the water's colors and reduce glare. While the boardwalk loop is short, it's packed with visually stunning scenes.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Geologists
The microbial life thriving in these extreme conditions is a marvel. The informative signage provides excellent context for understanding the science behind the beauty. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the resilience of life and the powerful geological processes shaping our planet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Black Sand Basin
The basin's true stars are its colorful hot springs and geysers. These features are colored by microbial mats, which are communities of heat-loving bacteria. Different species thrive at different temperatures, creating distinct bands of color, from deep reds and oranges to vibrant yellows and greens. The unique ecosystem here is a testament to life's ability to adapt to extreme environments.
Visitors can explore these wonders via a well-maintained boardwalk loop. This ensures that you can get close to the thermal features while protecting the fragile environment. The contrast between the dark obsidian sand and the brilliant colors of the pools makes Black Sand Basin a visually striking and geologically significant stop in Yellowstone.
Understanding the Thermal Features
Beyond geysers, the basin boasts numerous hot springs and bubbling mud pots. Hot springs are characterized by their pools of superheated water, often displaying stunning colors due to the thermophilic bacteria that inhabit them. Rainbow Pool is a prime example, living up to its name with its dazzling array of colors. Mud pots, on the other hand, are acidic hot springs where the water has dissolved the surrounding rock into a thick, bubbling mud.
It's crucial to remember that these features are dynamic and can change over time. The heat and chemistry of the water create a unique environment, and observing them from the safety of the boardwalk is essential. The constant activity and vibrant displays make Black Sand Basin a fascinating place to witness the raw power of the Earth.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit