Highlight • Natural Monument
Hiking
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Giantess Geyser is a remarkable natural monument nestled within the iconic Upper Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2241 meters (7,352 feet) in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this fountain-type geyser is celebrated for its infrequent yet incredibly powerful eruptions. When active, it sends spectacular bursts of water and steam soaring 30 to 61 meters (100 to 200 feet) into the air, making it one of Yellowstone's most dramatic geothermal features.
What…
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September 19, 2024
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Nearby routes
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Details
Informations
Elevation 2,240 m
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Friday 13 March
6°C
-1°C
35 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 37.0 km/h
Most visited during
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Giantess Geyser is known for its infrequent but spectacular eruptions. Historically, it erupts between two and six times a year, though it can also experience prolonged periods of dormancy, sometimes lasting several years. Once an eruption begins, it can be a lengthy event, with bursts occurring twice hourly and activity continuing for 4 to 48 hours, sometimes even longer.
Giantess Geyser is located within Yellowstone National Park. Therefore, you will need to pay the standard entrance fee for Yellowstone National Park. There are no additional permits or fees specifically required to visit the geyser itself once you are inside the park.
Yes, the area around Giantess Geyser in the Upper Geyser Basin is generally family-friendly. The geyser is accessible via well-maintained boardwalks, which are easy for walking. While witnessing an eruption is unpredictable, the surrounding area offers many other geothermal features and easy walks that can be enjoyed by all ages.
In Yellowstone National Park, pets are generally not allowed on boardwalks or trails, including those around Giantess Geyser. They are permitted in developed areas, in vehicles, and within 100 feet of roads and parking areas. Always keep pets on a leash no longer than six feet and never leave them unattended.
Parking for Giantess Geyser is typically available in designated lots within the Upper Geyser Basin, most conveniently near the Old Faithful area. These lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season (late spring to early autumn). Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a spot.
The boardwalks in the Upper Geyser Basin, which lead to viewing areas for Giantess Geyser and other features, are generally wheelchair-accessible. However, specific viewing platforms or sections might have slight inclines. It's always a good idea to check the latest accessibility information on the National Park Service website before your visit.
While the intro mentions late spring through early autumn for comfortable conditions, to avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons: late April to early May or late September to October. During these times, the weather can still be pleasant, and the park is less congested, offering a more serene experience.
Yes, Giantess Geyser can be visited in winter, offering a unique and often quieter experience. However, access to the Upper Geyser Basin is typically limited to oversnow travel (snowmobiles or snowcoaches) from mid-December to early March. Expect cold temperatures, heavy snow, and fewer services. Dress in multiple warm layers.
The closest facilities for food, drinks, and lodging are located in the Old Faithful area, which is a short walk or drive from Giantess Geyser. Here you'll find several restaurants, snack bars, gift shops, and lodging options, including the historic Old Faithful Inn and Old Faithful Lodge.
Giantess Geyser is situated in the Upper Geyser Basin, which is home to the highest concentration of geysers in the world. Nearby notable features include the highly predictable Old Faithful Geyser, Grand Geyser (the tallest predictable geyser), Castle Geyser, Daisy Geyser, and Riverside Geyser. Many of these can be explored via the extensive boardwalk system.
Since Giantess Geyser's eruptions are rare and unpredictable, you can't plan your visit around a specific eruption. To explore Giantess and the many other fascinating features of the Upper Geyser Basin, including Old Faithful, plan to spend at least 2-4 hours walking the boardwalks. If you hope to witness an eruption, you might need to dedicate a full day or more to the area, as eruptions can be hours or days apart.