Black Sand Basin

Black Sand Basin is a geothermal area in the Upper Geyser Basin within Yellowstone National Park, featuring multiple hot springs and geysers with varying temperatures. The pools display different colors from turquoise to blue depending on mineral content and water depth.

The area was originally named Emerald Group by geologist A.C. Peale in 1878, but visitors called it Black Sand Basin because of the dark obsidian sand covering the ground. The local name eventually became official as travelers explored and shared their observations.

The thermal features of Black Sand Basin represent one of only five locations worldwide with substantial concentrations of active geothermal formations alongside Kamchatka, Chile, New Zealand, and Iceland.

You can reach the area by a short walk from the parking area or connect from Daisy Geyser nearby, with trails open year-round. Wear sturdy shoes since paths can be uneven and stay behind barriers near hot springs.

The former Handkerchief Pool was a popular attraction where visitors would throw in handkerchiefs that got cleaned by natural currents before floating back out. This unusual practice eventually stopped to protect the delicate spring from damage.