The short answer
Old Faithful is about 120 miles and 2 hours 45 minutes from Bozeman via West Yellowstone. It erupts roughly every 60 to 110 minutes, and the surrounding Upper Geyser Basin has miles of boardwalk past more geysers than anywhere else on Earth.
What to do
Top things to do at Old Faithful & Upper Geyser Basin
Old Faithful eruptions
Rangers post predicted eruption times at the visitor education center and in the NPS app.
Observation Point
A short, steep trail climbs above the basin for a view of the eruption over the crowd.
Morning Glory Pool
A 1.5-mile boardwalk walk past Castle, Grand and Riverside geysers.
Old Faithful Inn
The 1904 log lobby is worth a stop even if you aren’t staying.
By van
Getting there in a van
Head south on US-191 to West Yellowstone, enter the park and follow signs to Madison Junction, then south to Old Faithful. Return the same way or continue north via Norris to Mammoth and Gardiner for a loop.
- Arrive before 9 a.m. in summer; the large lots fill by late morning.
- Park in the outer rows where a long van fits without blocking aisles.
- Pair it with Grand Prismatic, 8 miles north, before that lot fills.
Pack list
What to bring to Old Faithful & Upper Geyser Basin
- Sun hat — there’s little shade on the boardwalks
- Refillable water bottles
- A light jacket for wind and spray
- Snacks for waiting on eruptions
FAQ
Old Faithful & Upper Geyser Basin: common questions
How often does Old Faithful erupt?
Roughly every 60 to 110 minutes, with eruptions lasting one and a half to five minutes. Predictions are posted daily at the visitor center.
Can you see Old Faithful in winter?
Yes, but not by car. From mid-December to mid-March the road from West Yellowstone is reached only on guided snowcoach or snowmobile tours.
Things to do here
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