Gibbon Hill Geyser
This geyser erupts at 7,570 feet elevation, producing near-boiling water at 199 degrees Fahrenheit accessible via four-fifths mile walk from the road. USGS analysis records acidic pH of 5.6 with moderate mineral concentrations including 69.2 milligrams per liter sodium and 16.4 milligrams per liter chloride, indicating mixed thermal water sources.
The geyser sits on Gibbon Hill, a thermal prominence within Yellowstone's active geothermal landscape between Norris and Mammoth areas. Lodgepole pine forest surrounds the feature, with thermally influenced bare ground and silica deposits marking areas of highest heat flow. The site experiences average annual temperatures of 34.6 degrees Fahrenheit with 123 inches of snowfall. Thermal runoff channels extend downslope, supporting thermophilic microorganisms that create orange and green mats.
Access via short trail from parking area; follow all posted warnings and stay on designated paths. Geyser eruptions are unpredictable; maintain safe distance from vent and runoff channels. Visit late May through October when access road is open. Bring camera with zoom lens to photograph eruptions safely from established viewing areas. The site is less crowded than Old Faithful area but requires same cautions around extreme temperatures and unstable ground.
The feature name combines the local topographic designation with its erupting character. Park records document variable activity patterns, with eruption frequency and height changing over decades as subsurface conditions shift. USGS thermal monitoring at this site contributes to long-term datasets tracking Yellowstone's complex hydrothermal system behavior.
The water at Gibbon Hill Geyser is slightly acidic (pH 5.6).
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Overview Located about eight miles (13 km) south of Mammoth Hot Springs on the road to Norris, Indian Creek Campground—elevation 7,300 feet (2225 m)—sits near the base of the Gallatin Mountains and offers breathtaking views of Electric Peak. The area offers easy access to fishing and hiking. The campground is away from the main road and provides a quieter, more primitive, experience than many other locations. For reservations at the campgrounds managed by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Fi...
Gibbon Hill Geyser sits at 7,570 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 30% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Gibbon Hill Geyser is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water is dangerously hot — bring water shoes and test pools carefully. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Springs Near Gibbon Hill Geyser
More Springs Around 199°F
Slightly Acidic Springs (pH ~5.6)
Hike 6 waterfalls near Gibbon Hill Geyser
Looking for more outdoor adventures? Explore waterfall hikes near Gibbon Hill Geyser, Wyoming.