Steamboat Geyser
The world's tallest active geyser, Steamboat can erupt to more than 300 feet (90m), showering viewers with its mineral-rich waters.
- Get a chance to witness minor eruptions at Steamboat Geyser in Yellowstone.
- Hope to be there for one of the rare major eruptions with water spouting 300 feet high.
- Check Cistern Spring for indications of an impending major eruption.
- Easily accessed in Norris Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park.
Overview
Steamboat Geyser in Yellowstone is the world’s tallest geyser that is currently active. Shooting water into the air up to 300 feet, its incredible display is one to catch if you can.
Location
Yellowstone Steamboat Geyser is located in the Norris Geyser Basin, about .2 miles from the museum.
Seasons to Visit Steamboat Geyser
Although Steamboat Geyser Yellowstone is open all year, spring, summer and fall are usually the best times to visit. In the winter, you should contact the park to find if any roads are closed due to inclement weather.
What to Expect at Steamboat Geyser
You can watch as Steamboat Geyser ejects water in bursts of 10 to 40 feet high. This will most likely be what you’ll see on your visit to this Yellowstone geyser.
Steamboat Geyser Yellowstone National Park is a very unpredictable geyser, unlike Old Faithful. Minor eruptions are most frequent, but the opportunity to view a major eruption is pure chance.
The intervals between the major eruptions of this geyser have ranged from 4 days to about fifty years! In recent years, Steamboat has had few major eruptions. They often last only 3 to 40 minutes but shoot steam and water up to 300 feet.
When visiting, you can see if a major eruption is imminent. Check the Cistern Spring nearby. It drains completely when Steamboat Geyser is having a major eruption.
