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Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

4.6

#3 of 82 in Parks in Yellowstone National Park

At nearly 113 m (370 ft) across and 37 m (121 ft) deep, Grand Prismatic Spring holds the title of the largest hot spring in America and one of the largest in the world. A premier attraction at Yellowstone National Park, the spring's fame traces back to early explorers and fur trappers who first noted it in the early 1800s. The boiling pool constantly steams and bubbles, with its vivid, rainbow-like appearance--the result of pigmented bacteria. To get a close-up view, walk along the park's boardwalk, which leads to a route close to the water's edge. Stay on the path, as the high temperatures of the pool can be dangerous. Plan to visit Grand Prismatic Spring and other customer-reviewed, writer-recommended Yellowstone National Park attractions using our Yellowstone National Park travel route app .

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Grand Prismatic Spring Reviews

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2,418 reviews

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4.7

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4.9

1,258 likes

By ewachtler On July 4, 2018

We parked at the Middle Geyser lot and walked to the Grand Prismatic overlook. The walk was level until the small uphill climb to the overlook, probably a mile and a half round trip. The view was abso... more »
By 1966Airstream On July 4, 2018

We accidently hiked to the overlook to see Grand Prismatic Spring but was glad that we did. It had not been our intent--we were looking for something else. We had always wanted to see Grand Prismatic ... more »
By Xenizen On July 4, 2018

While a slightly impressive walk to the spring, the steam and low level prevent you from seeing anything. If you're a photographer, you squeeze some nice shots, but not much to see. Instead, take the ... more »

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By Swetha K.Kumar On September 7, 2018

One of the very unique places I have ever been.. so much colors and it's just a visual treat from nature. If you want a grander view, make sure you do the small hike (about 15 to 20 mins) from Fairy falls point.

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By J Cas On August 17, 2018

Amazing the colors you see from up close. Took some great shots. I suggest wearing comfortable sneakers as it's a long walk to the top

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By Stormie On July 31, 2018

Such an amazing place! The Midway Basin (where this geyser is located) is incredible, there's also a few different geysers you can see here. It's a definite must see! The boardwalk isn't very wide which could be scary if you don't pay attention. There were a lot of people there when we went but it wasn't hard to get a good picture of the geysers since the boardwalk isn't very wide. The walk up to the geysers from the parking lot is not bad at all. There's a decent sized parking lot, but it's definitely not enough so you'll probably have to drive around the parking lot for a while or park on the road and take a walk. There's bathrooms at this stop as well.

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By Alptekin Genc On July 11, 2018

It is just stunning. I strongly recommend to walk to the viewpoint 2 miles away from Grand Prismatic Spring. You can see the whole picture. Cross your fingers for a sunny day, because It looks more beautiful when it is sunny.

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By Sneha Chandrika On August 3, 2018

One of the rarest landscape formations I witnessed. The sulphur fume, the colorful gases, the bacterial mats and the vast landscape. Definitely one of my favorite places in the world. A prismatic experience.

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