West Thumb Geyser Basin

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Of note was the visitor's center which had an extensive display regarding the devastating fires of 1988. After this location we made a point of touring any visitor's center we came across. They are a valuable source of information, as well as water, which is nothing to ignore since despite the large amount of flowing water in Yellowstone, readily available potable water (as in drinking fountains) is found only at hotels, campsites, eating areas and visitor's centers.

A good example of a typical hot water spring. Note how thin the ground is around this spring. This is one reason stepping off the boardwalks is forbidden. Water temperatures vary from tepid to near boiling and most can scald.	An interior shot of the visitor's center. This display was devoted to the devastating fires of 1988.
Blue Funnel Spring. Another deceivingly beautiful hot springs. In spite of the abundant water note how devoid of vegetation the area around the pool is. Soil and water conditions here don't really promote much vegatation growth.	A typical example of the extensive boardwalk system here and throughout the park. The railings are there not only for the visitors' protection, but also for protection of the landscape as well.
Multicolored water caused by different types of algae. Yellowstone Lake is in the background.	Hot springs also take on the form of mud pots. Here's a little of both.
You can see here how the boardwalks go right over the hots springs, or where the springs overtook the boardwalk. Maybe both?

All information and photos Copyright ©1994- 2002 John R. Powell

updated 9/16/02