What to Do Around Old Faithful

A Guide to Yellowstone’s Iconic Gem

Old Faithful, the world-renowned geyser, is one of Yellowstone National Park’s most iconic and beloved features. But while the eruption of this incredible natural wonder may last just a few minutes, there’s so much more to discover around the Old Faithful area. From awe-inspiring geothermal wonders to scenic hikes, biking adventures, and peaceful moments around the geysers, the region is packed with activities for all types of adventurers. Here’s your guide to what to do around Old Faithful and its surrounding beauty.

1. Witness Old Faithful Erupt

No visit to Old Faithful is complete without witnessing its famous eruption. Erupting roughly every 90 minutes, Old Faithful is a spectacular sight, with bursts of water reaching heights of up to 180 feet. The eruption lasts between 1.5 and 5 minutes. The Old Faithful Visitor Center provides eruption predictions, so make sure to arrive a bit early to grab a good spot. This is one of nature’s most iconic shows—don’t forget your camera!

2. Explore the Geyser Basin

The Upper Geyser Basin is home to the largest concentration of geysers in the world, and Old Faithful is just the beginning. Take a walk along the boardwalks to see other geysers like Castle Geyser, Grand Geyser, and the vibrant Morning Glory Pool. The basin also features hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots, each offering unique colors and patterns that make the area a photographer’s dream. Take your time to explore, and be sure to stop at the various viewing platforms for panoramic views of the basin.

3. Hike the Trails Around Old Faithful

Yellowstone offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels, and many are conveniently located near Old Faithful. Here are some of the best hikes you can enjoy:

• Geyser Hill Trail (1.5 miles round trip): This short hike offers great views of the Upper Geyser Basin and passes several active geothermal features, including the Beehive Geyser. It's a relatively easy walk, perfect for those who want to explore more of the geothermal landscape near Old Faithful.

• Old Faithful to Biscuit Basin Trail (2 miles round trip): This scenic trail leads you through beautiful meadows and geothermal features to the Biscuit Basin, where you’ll find colorful hot springs and geysers. It’s an easy-to-moderate hike, making it an excellent choice for families or casual adventurers.

• Mallard Lake Trail (4 miles round trip): For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Mallard Lake Trail offers a peaceful hike through forests and past marshes to a serene lake. It’s a wonderful trail to enjoy the quieter side of Yellowstone and can be accessed from the Old Faithful area.

• Observation Point Trail (0.5 miles round trip): For a quick hike with a big reward, head to the Observation Point Trail. This half-mile uphill trek gives you an amazing panoramic view of the Upper Geyser Basin, including Old Faithful. It’s the perfect spot for a photo opportunity.

  
  

  

  
  

4. Biking or Roller Skating to Morning Glory Pool

If you're in the mood for a more leisurely activity, consider biking or roller skating along the paved path from Old Faithful to Morning Glory Pool. This easy ride is a great way to explore the beautiful landscape at your own pace. The route takes you through scenic meadows and offers beautiful views of the surrounding geothermal features. Once you reach Morning Glory Pool, you’ll be greeted by its vibrant colors, making it a rewarding stop for your efforts. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you roll through the area!

5. Geyser Gazing

If you’re a fan of geysers, the area around Old Faithful is the perfect place to indulge in some "geyser gazing." The Upper Geyser Basin is home to numerous geysers, and you can easily spend hours watching these fascinating natural features erupt. While Old Faithful steals the spotlight, other geysers like Grand Geyser, Castle Geyser, and Beehive Geyser also offer spectacular shows. Take the time to sit and observe their eruptions—some are more unpredictable, adding an element of surprise to your geyser-gazing experience.

6. Coffee Around the Boardwalk

After a morning hike or a long day of exploring, there’s nothing quite like sipping a hot coffee while taking in the beauty of Old Faithful. Stop by the Old Faithful Visitor Center or the Old Faithful Inn, where you can grab a fresh cup of coffee or a warm drink to enjoy while you sit by the boardwalk and watch Old Faithful erupt. It’s the perfect way to relax and reflect on your adventures while being surrounded by the park’s incredible geothermal wonders. The peaceful atmosphere will make the coffee taste even better!

7. Visit the Old Faithful Inn

The Old Faithful Inn is a historical gem and one of the most impressive buildings in Yellowstone. Built in 1904, the Inn features rustic architecture with massive log beams and a stunning stone fireplace. Even if you’re not staying at the Inn, it’s worth a visit to explore the lobby, admire the architecture, and enjoy a meal at the dining room. You can also relax on the porch and enjoy beautiful views of the geyser basin. This charming spot is a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

8. Wildlife Watching

Yellowstone is famous for its wildlife, and the Old Faithful area is no exception. Early mornings or late evenings are the best times to spot bison, elk, moose, and even grizzly bears. The meadows near Old Faithful are a prime location for bison sightings, so keep your eyes peeled for these majestic animals. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect wildlife guidelines to ensure both your safety and the animals’ well-being.

9. Photography and Stargazing

The combination of geothermal features, expansive landscapes, and wildlife makes Old Faithful and its surrounding area a photographer’s dream. Whether you're capturing the eruption of Old Faithful or snapping a picture of the misty morning light over the geyser basin, the opportunities for stunning photos are endless. In the evening, Yellowstone’s dark skies are perfect for stargazing. The clear, high-altitude skies offer an unobstructed view of the Milky Way and countless constellations, making it an unforgettable stargazing experience.

10. Relax at the Old Faithful Lodge

If you’re looking for a quieter place to unwind, the Old Faithful Lodge is the perfect spot. You can enjoy a casual meal at the lodge’s cafeteria, or simply relax in the cozy atmosphere while taking in the view of Old Faithful. The peaceful setting around the lodge makes it an ideal place to take a break after a day of exploring.

11. Attend Ranger Programs

The National Park Service offers a variety of ranger-led programs throughout the day. These programs focus on the geology, history, and ecology of Yellowstone, and many feature the geothermal wonders of the Old Faithful area. Join a ranger walk or attend a talk to learn more about the fascinating science behind the eruptions and the history of the park. Check the schedule at the Old Faithful Visitor Center for more information.

12. Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing in Winter

If you visit Yellowstone in winter, the Old Faithful area offers excellent cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Winter transforms the park into a peaceful, snowy landscape, and the steam rising from the geysers against the snow is a magical sight. It’s a great time to experience Yellowstone in a more tranquil setting with fewer crowds and incredible scenery.

Conclusion

The Old Faithful area of Yellowstone National Park is much more than just the famous geyser itself. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, or simply a relaxing moment, there’s something for everyone here. With hiking trails, biking routes, geyser gazing, and cozy coffee spots around the boardwalk, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the park in so many ways. Don’t forget to take time to explore the nearby attractions, and you’ll leave Yellowstone with memories that will last a lifetime.