Highlight • Natural Monument
Minute Geyser
Hiking
5.0
(19)
Minute Geyser is a significant natural monument nestled within the dynamic Norris Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park, United States of America. Standing at an elevation of 2293 meters, this geyser, though historically more active, remains a poignant feature in one of Yellowstone's most geothermally active and acidic areas. Its location within the Norris Geyser Basin, an area known for constant geological change and earthquake activity, highlights the park's powerful underground forces.
What draws visitors to Minute Geyser today is…
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Tips
September 23, 2024
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August 27, 2024
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Minute Geyser
5.0
(11)
167
hikers
4.20km
01:09
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
38
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
33
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,290 m
Weather
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Today
Friday 13 March
7°C
-2°C
37 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 34.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the trail to Minute Geyser accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, Minute Geyser is located along a flat, wooden boardwalk within the Norris Geyser Basin. This makes it easily accessible for visitors using wheelchairs, strollers, or those with limited mobility. The boardwalk ensures a smooth and safe path through the thermal area.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around Minute Geyser in Norris Geyser Basin?
No, pets are generally not allowed on boardwalks or trails in Yellowstone National Park, including the Norris Geyser Basin where Minute Geyser is located. Dogs are permitted only in developed areas, such as roads, campgrounds, and parking lots, and must always be on a leash. This policy helps protect both wildlife and the delicate thermal features.
What is the typical trail difficulty and length to reach Minute Geyser?
The path to Minute Geyser is considered very easy. It's part of the extensive boardwalk system in the Norris Geyser Basin. The entire Norris Geyser Basin offers various loop options, but reaching Minute Geyser specifically is a short, flat walk on the designated wooden walkway. The total distance for exploring the basin can vary depending on how many loops you choose, but Minute Geyser itself is quickly accessible.
What are the best times of day or year to visit Minute Geyser to avoid crowds?
To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting Minute Geyser and the Norris Geyser Basin early in the morning (before 9 AM) or late in the afternoon (after 4 PM), especially during the peak summer months (June-August). Spring (May) and Fall (September-October) generally offer fewer visitors and pleasant weather, though some services may be limited in the shoulder seasons.
Are there any amenities like restrooms or food services near Minute Geyser?
Within the Norris Geyser Basin itself, there are restrooms available. However, there are no cafes or extensive food services directly at Minute Geyser or in the immediate basin area. The nearest services, including food and lodging, can be found at Canyon Village or Mammoth Hot Springs, both a drive away from Norris.
What should I pack for a visit to Minute Geyser and the Norris Geyser Basin?
Even on sunny days, the thermal features can radiate significant heat, so light, breathable clothing is recommended. However, weather in Yellowstone can change rapidly, so layers are always a good idea. Don't forget plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes suitable for boardwalks. Binoculars can enhance wildlife viewing, and a camera is a must for capturing the unique landscape.
What kind of wildlife might I see around Minute Geyser?
While the immediate thermal area around Minute Geyser is less likely to host large mammals due to the extreme heat and acidic conditions, you might spot birds, small rodents, or insects adapted to the environment. Larger wildlife, such as bison, elk, or even bears, can occasionally be seen in the broader Norris Geyser Basin area or along the roads leading to it, especially during dawn or dusk.
Are there any specific permits required to visit Minute Geyser or Norris Geyser Basin?
To visit Minute Geyser and the Norris Geyser Basin, you will need to pay the entrance fee for Yellowstone National Park. This fee covers entry for a specified number of days. No additional specific permits are required for day-use access to the geyser basin itself. Annual passes or interagency passes are also accepted.
What makes the Norris Geyser Basin, where Minute Geyser is located, so unique geologically?
The Norris Geyser Basin is one of Yellowstone's most dynamic and unique thermal areas. It's the hottest and most acidic basin in the park, sitting at the intersection of three major faults. This geological instability leads to constant changes, with new hot springs and geysers appearing and others becoming dormant due to seismic activity. It features both acid and alkaline hot springs, and vibrant thermophilic microorganisms that color the landscape, making it a living laboratory of geothermal processes.
Can I see other significant geysers or hot springs near Minute Geyser?
Absolutely! Minute Geyser is just one of many fascinating features within the Norris Geyser Basin. The basin is home to Steamboat Geyser, the world's tallest active geyser, though its eruptions are infrequent and unpredictable. You can also explore Porcelain Basin and Back Basin, which feature numerous other geysers, colorful hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots, all easily accessible via the boardwalk system.
Why is Minute Geyser no longer as active as it once was?
Historically, Minute Geyser was known for frequent and vigorous eruptions. However, its activity significantly diminished due to human interference. Early visitors unfortunately tossed coins and other objects into its vent, which gradually plugged its plumbing system. This act of vandalism effectively 'killed' the geyser's former power, and today it only sporadically spouts water 1-3 feet from a smaller east vent, serving as a cautionary tale about preserving natural wonders.