Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook

Review & FAQ:

What is the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook?
- Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook is one of Yellowstone National Park’s newer trails, designed to protect the spring while providing an excellent viewpoint to observe this fascinating natural feature.
Where is the trailhead located?
- The trail shares its trailhead with the Fairy Falls Trail, making it easily accessible to visitors exploring both areas.
What is the trail like?
- The trail is a wide and flat crushed gravel path that starts at the bridge crossing the Firehole River. It gently ascends through a regrown lodgepole forest before reaching the spacious viewing platform.
What can hikers see from the overlook?
- The overlook provides a spectacular view of:
  - Grand Prismatic Spring
  - Excelsior Geyser
How hot is the Grand Prismatic Spring?
- The spring can reach a temperature of 188°F, with the hottest temperatures found in the deep blue center.
Why does the Grand Prismatic Spring have different colors?
- The colors are caused by heat-loving bacteria that thrive in different temperature zones:
  - The center appears blue due to the extreme heat.
  - The green area, where the temperature is around 165°F, is due to Synechococcus bacteria.
  - The outer rim turns orange and dark brown due to Calothrix and Phormidium cyanobacteria.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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