Old Faithful
4.7(27K)google
4.6(103)yelp
FamilyHot SpringMust-SeeScenic Lookout
Overview
Old Faithful is the world's most famous highly predictable geothermal feature, located in Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin. Erupting approximately every 60 to 110 minutes, this iconic geyser shoots thousands of gallons of boiling water up to 180 feet into the air. A massive historic log-and-stone inn and extensive boardwalk network allow thousands of daily visitors to safely view this spectacular displays of natural power.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 1.5-2.5 hours
Best TimeAccessible year-round (via oversnow vehicles in winter). Summer mornings before 8:00 AM or late evenings are best to avoid the massive tour bus crowds. Check predicted eruption times at the visitor center first; bright daylight filtering through the massive steam column creates an iconic sight.
Getting ThereLocated in the Upper Geyser Basin in the southwestern section of Yellowstone. Drive along the park's Lower Loop Road to reach the Old Faithful historic district. The area features sprawling free parking lots, lodges, and an extensive network of accessible boardwalks.
Travel Tips
- Eruption predictions carry a +/- 10-minute margin of error. Do not arrive exactly on time; secure a seat on the boardwalk 20-30 minutes early. Always check the live prediction schedule at the visitor center or via the official Yellowstone App.
- This basin features the park's largest parking lot, yet it completely fills between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM in summer, crippling nearby highway traffic. Visit before 8:30 AM or after 6:00 PM to park seamlessly and secure ideal front-lit photos.
Photo Tips
Photo Spots
- To bypass the dense crowds and capture the geyser alongside the historic Old Faithful Inn, avoid the circular boardwalk. Hike 0.5 miles up the Observation Point Trail to an elevated ridge layout for a premium panoramic overview.
Reviews
Positive
- The clockwork regularity of its eruptions is amazing; the massive column of water and boiling steam shooting skyward delivers a wordless shock.
- The geyser is surrounded by a massive, stadium-like semi-circular viewing deck offering unobstructed lines of sight and precise digital wait times.
- The iconic Old Faithful Inn bursts with historic charm; its grand, all-wooden structure is highly worth walking through for a coffee.
- The site features a massive visitor center, multiple clean modern restrooms, large general stores, and flawlessly designed accessible ramps.
Heads up
- This is the most crowded and heavily commercialized spot in Yellowstone; right before eruptions, the decks are swarming, lacking wild peace.
- The surrounding fast food spots and gift shops get chaotic during rush hours; an average burger costs a fortune and tastes like assembly-line food.
- If you miss an eruption, you have to wait on the unshaded bleachers in scorching sun or chilly winds for over an hour, which gets tedious.
- The massive parking lots frequently descend into chaos; hundreds of cars rush the exits post-eruption, and slow traffic control causes big delays.