Artemisia Geyser

Overview

Artemisia is a fountain geyser with a broad, blue pool and one of the most ornate sinter rims in the basin. When it’s gearing up, you’ll often hear underground “thumps” as steam collapses in the plumbing—an unmistakable, goosebump-raising cue that a show may be imminent. Major eruptions can throw water roughly 20–35 feet high with heavy discharge and big steam clouds in cool or humid weather; minors are shorter and lower but still photogenic.

What You’ll See

Expect crystal-clear turquoise water bordered by a popcorn-textured, sage-tinted sinter rim. During a major play, the pool roils and boils as water surges over the rim. Between eruptions, it’s a serene, glassy mirror—worth a stop even when quiet.

Eruption Behavior (Manage Expectations)

Artemisia’s schedule isn’t “set your watch” reliable. Reported intervals have ranged from roughly under a day to well over, and they vary by era and conditions. Pre-eruption signs include a sudden rise in water level and sustained boiling/overflow. After a minor, the pool can refill within a couple of hours; majors are less frequent but much more dramatic.

Getting There

Artemisia sits between Morning Glory Pool and Biscuit Basin in the Upper Geyser Basin. From Old Faithful, it’s about 1.8 miles one-way along a mix of paved path and boardwalks through a dense cluster of thermal features. From the Biscuit Basin lot, it’s roughly 0.7 miles south. There’s no pullout at the geyser—use the big Old Faithful lots or the smaller Biscuit Basin parking area.

Pair It With

Make it part of a loop: Old Faithful → Geyser Hill/Upper Basin → Morning Glory Pool → Artemisia → Daisy/Riverside → Biscuit Basin. You’ll maximize your chances of catching something erupting and never be bored while you wait.

Wildlife & Safety

Bison and elk wander these paths—give them room. Stay on boardwalks and designated trails; ground and water here can be near boiling.

Photography

The pool’s color and the sinter textures are gorgeous in any light. For steam drama, cool mornings or humid conditions amplify eruption plumes. Bring a mid‑range zoom to frame the arcs of water over the rim.

Best Time to Visit

Early or late in the day for softer light, calmer air, and fewer people on the paths. If you’re set on seeing a play, check recent observations at the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center, then explore nearby features while you listen for Artemisia’s telltale thumping.