Yellowstone geyser

Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone National Park erupts every 44 to 125 minutes, shooting hot water up to 56 meters high.

About this subject

Yellowstone's geysers are rare hydrothermal features concentrated in the Upper Geyser Basin. Old Faithful, the most famous, was named in 1870 by the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition for its predictable eruptions. Water is heated by magma from the Yellowstone caldera, reaching underground temperatures up to 250°C. Accumulated pressure forces the water to erupt violently, creating displays lasting 1.5 to 5 minutes.

Yellowstone hosts over 500 active geysers, roughly half of all geysers on Earth. Other notable ones include Steamboat Geyser, the world's tallest with eruptions up to 91 meters, and Grand Prismatic Spring, one of the largest hot springs globally. The geothermal activity stems from the volcanic hotspot beneath the region, which also causes frequent earthquakes.

Geysers support unique ecosystems with thermophilic microorganisms that color the pools in vibrant hues. Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, protects this active volcanic landscape. Visitors must stay on boardwalks due to unstable ground and scalding water. Old Faithful's predictability is monitored by the National Park Service, which updates eruption schedules daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average height of Old Faithful's eruption?

Old Faithful's eruption reaches between 32 and 56 meters, with an average of 40 meters.

How many geysers are in Yellowstone?

Yellowstone has over 500 active geysers, roughly half of all geysers worldwide.

Why is the water in geysers so hot?

The water is heated by magma from the Yellowstone volcanic caldera, reaching underground temperatures up to 250°C.