Little Geysers
Little Geysers discharges near-boiling water at 210°F from the heart of the world's largest geothermal field, producing vigorous steam and fumaroles at just 159 feet from the road. Located near Cobb in Lake County, this geothermal hotspot sits where dozens of power plants tap the earth's internal heat.
A short walk from Dillingham Road leads to Little Geysers at 2,682 feet elevation. Visitors encounter sulfurous steam vents, mineral-crusted rock formations in brilliant yellows and whites, and the distinctive odor of geothermal gases rising from fissures. The landscape resembles an alien terrain—barren of vegetation beyond a few hardy geothermal specialists adapted to toxic soil and superheated ground.
The Geysers geothermal field sits atop a 5-mile-wide silica-rich reservoir in the northern Mayacamas Mountains. Little Geysers and neighboring vents mark where groundwater encounters rock temperatures exceeding 700°F, producing the superheated discharge 154 degrees above ambient (56°F). The field has generated electricity continuously since the 1960s.
A short walk of under 0.1 miles reaches the main fumaroles. Stay on marked paths—ground temperature can reach dangerous levels beneath thin surface crusts. Visit any season, but avoid heavy fog in winter. The intense geothermal activity makes this a compelling engineering and geological display, not a soak destination."
Is Little Geysers worth visiting?
Best for
- Viewing dramatic geothermal features
- Overnight camping trips
Not ideal for
- Swimming or soaking
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