Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Spring is a hot spring in Yellowstone's Midway Geyser Basin, roughly 370 feet (about 113 meters) wide and ringed by layers of color. The water shimmers deep blue in the center, while the edges display orange, yellow, and greenish tones created by mineral deposits and microorganisms.

Geologists from the Hayden Expedition named the spring in 1871 after documenting its rainbow-colored formations. Yellowstone became the world's first national park a year later, securing protection for this thermal feature.

The vivid color rings form from tiny organisms that thrive at different temperatures, giving the water its bright hues. Visitors see this natural palette best on clear days when sunlight hits the surface directly.

Wooden boardwalks lead close to the spring and offer safe viewing points, while an elevated trail to Fairy Falls Trail provides a view from above. The colors appear strongest in bright sunlight, usually between late morning and early afternoon.

The water flows continuously and discharges roughly 2,100 liters per minute, causing the color patterns to shift slightly throughout the day. On cool mornings, steam rises and temporarily hides the colored edges while the center remains visible.

Location: Wyoming

GPS coordinates: 44.52507,-110.83820

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:36