Yellowstone Caldera

This hot spot in the earth’s crust offers visitors the opportunity to view an abundance of fascinating geothermal activity. Yellowstone was the first National Park in the World, created in 1872, covering 3,472 square miles. The park famously includes hot springs, steaming vents, mud pots, fumaroles, and over 300 geysers, more than anywhere else on earth.

Yellowstone’s tranquil beauty and hints of geothermal activity belie its true nature. A large portion of the park is in fact a caldera, all that’s left of a giant volcano, which last erupted more than 640,000 years ago. The Supervolcano, which absolutely isn’t a cool word we just made up, is still active below the surface of Yellowstone. Scientists can’t say when it will erupt next, but considering the underground reservoir of magma and geothermal activity within the park, it’s only a matter of time. Despite that fact, more than 2 million people visit the park each year. Hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography are some of the most popular activities. Hikes in the caldera region range from short nature trails to multi-day treks.

Making it Happen

Jackson Hole Airport serves the greater Yellowstone area, as well as Grand Teton National Park. There is no public transportation within Yellowstone, so visitors must use private vehicles to get around. There are 12 campgrounds throughout the park, plus a number of hotels, cabins, and lodges. Accommodations fill quickly and should be booked well in advance. Gift shops, grocery stores, and restaurants are also plentiful within Yellowstone's small villages.

Most importantly, in order to truly appreciate all that Yellowstone has to offer, it is important to get off the roads and into the backcountry. The park encompasses 2.2 million acres, so be sure to plan your adventures based on the time you have allocated. Here are some spots you won’t want to miss:

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone - Yellowstone's Grand Canyon is 20 miles long and 800 to 1,200 feet deep. The raging Yellowstone River cuts through the canyon forming three magnificent waterfalls, Upper, Lower, and Crystal Falls. Backcountry hiking opportunities are plentiful along the canyon's rim, within the canyon, and along the river.

Norris Geyser Basin - An easy, 2.9 mile hike takes you to one of the hottest and most exciting geothermal areas in Yellowstone. Here you will find Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world.

West Thumb Geyser Basin - Overlooking Yellowstone Lake, West Thumb is a small caldera within a larger one. Hydrothermal activity bubbles up from the lake bottom, and the vast waters attract a myriad of wildlife.

These are just highlights of the fabulous hiking opportunities within and around the Caldera, and whatever natural adventure you’re seeking, you will surely find it in Yellowstone. Just make sure you visit before it goes BOOM!