Grand Prismatic Spring

The Basics

One of the best ways to see Grand Prismatic Spring is on a Yellowstone Lower Loop tour, which might take you to the springs as well as other attractions like Norris Geyser Basin, Excelsior Geyser, and the Fountain Paint Pots in just one day. Once you arrive at Grand Prismatic, take a walk around the wooden boardwalk circling the spring and admire views of the colorful surface. Be warned, though, that the water itself is far too hot to touch. For the best view of the spring, take a short hike up one of the nearby hills (such as Midway Bluff) for a panoramic vantage point.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Secure your belongings to avoid accidentally dropping anything into the spring.

• For safety purposes, stay on the boardwalk and don’t walk on the edge of the spring.

• Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

• Dress for the weather with lots of sun protection.

• Plenty of photo opportunities make this a top choice for photographers.

How to Get There

Grand Prismatic Spring is located in the Midway Geyser Basin on Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Road. It’s approximately 15 minutes north of Old Faithful, set near the banks of the Firehole River. From the parking area, it’s a short walk on a wooden boardwalk to reach the shore of the spring.

When to Get There

Though it may be extra steamy, the springs show their brightest colors under midday sun. Plan your visit for a summer afternoon for the best chance of seeing the famous colors.

Visiting from Nearby

Even if you're not staying in Yellowstone National Park, it's possible to visit Grand Prismatic Spring in just one day. Look for guided tours from Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, and more to visit with the ease of transportation and a tour guide. Or, opt to drive yourself on a Lower Loop self-guided tour to visit on your own schedule.

Ways to explore

One of the best ways to see the Grand Prismatic Spring is on a Yellowstone Lower Loop tour or self-guided audio tour, which covers the Geyser Basins—home to the Grand Prismatic Spring, Old Faithful, and the Fountain Paint Pots—plus Yellowstone Lake and plenty of wildlife viewing. Once you arrive at the spring, take a walk around the wooden boardwalk to admire the colors. Be warned, though, that the water itself is far too hot to touch. For the best view of the spring, take the short hike to the Grand Prismatic Overlook.

Accessibility

The viewing boardwalk near the spring is fully accessible to visitors in wheelchairs.

Age limits

There is no minimum age limit, but the spring is dangerously hot and children should be carefully supervised.

What to pack

Camera, battery pack, water bottle

What to wear

Hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Visitors are not allowed to approach or touch the spring’s boiling water.

Amenities

Boardwalk, information kiosk, exhibits

Address 

The Grand Prismatic Spring is in the Midway Geyser Basin on Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Road, about 15 minutes north of Old Faithful and near the banks of the Firehole River.

Driving

Enter Yellowstone National Park from the West or South entrance and follow Grand Loop Road to the Midway Geyser Basin parking lot. From the parking area, it’s a short walk on a wooden boardwalk to reach the shore of the spring. Or, for the panoramic overlook trail, stop at the Fairy Falls parking lot farther south.

Public transportation

There is no public transit, but several tour companies offer Lower Loop tours that include transportation.

Best times to visit

This A-list park attraction gets very crowded at midday, so try to visit first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the crush.

Best days to visit

Yellowstone is busy all week long from spring through fall, but weekends are especially packed, so consider making a midweek trip.

Best months to visit

The Grand Loop Road is closed to most vehicles during the winter months. Visit from late spring through early fall to avoid snow closures.

Special events

Stop at the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center to find out about any scheduled ranger walks or talks in the Midway Geyser Basin.