Norris Geyser Basin is one of the large major thermal feature at Yellowstone National Park. It is located on the West side of Yellowstone. Other than just the thermal features, there is actually a small museum there showing the volcanic activities. Due to its popularity, the parking lot at Norris Geyser Basin is quite large. There is also an overflow parking lot on the road just for people visiting Norris Geyser Basin.
We got to Norris Geyser Basin at 8AM and there was still plenty of parking space. As we entered the parking lot, we were notified that the largest geyser, Steamboat Geyser, could potentially damage the car if it erupts. We did see few cars covered up the whole car to prevent any damage.
The first place we went to was towards Porcelain Basin. From the overlook, we could see the entire basin with smoking steams coming out. The basin was so white just like porcelain. It was quite pretty but at the same time also seemed dangerous with all the steams coming out of it.
We then headed towards Steamboat Geyser, which was the largest here. Unfortunately, it is difficult to predict when Steam Boat Geyser will erupt. We were there for few minutes seeing all these steams going up into the air.
After that, we made our way around the board walk. The board walk seemed to be about 2 miles in total length. It was not that long. However, the board walk that goes around the back was less interesting. The thermal features there were just like hot springs with steam coming out. Many of the hot springs were dry and really not much to look at. Although it was still early in the morning. the sun was already high up and getting quite hot.
After hiking the board walk trail, we also checked out the museum. It was quite a small museum, probably the smallest museum that we have ever seen. The museum goes over the volcanic activity and the way how this landscape was formed.
When we left Norris Geyser Basin area, the entrance was already blocked off to prevent additional car coming in. The new visitors could only park on the side of the road and the overflow parking lot.
It is still worth a visit, but just make sure to visit Norris Geyser Basin early.
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