Daisy Geyser

Reliable, angled eruptions with a steam-engine finale

InsideYellowstone National Park

Overview

Tucked along the Upper Geyser Basin walk from Old Faithful, Daisy Geyser rewards patient visitors with reliably timed, sideways-leaning eruptions. It sits on a short loop off the main boardwalk, with a couple of viewing areas and some benches. Pair it with nearby features on the Old Faithful-to–Morning Glory Pool stroll and you’ve got a great thermal-watching session.

Eruption Pattern & What You’ll See

Daisy is known for predictability—roughly every two hours, with a posted prediction that can vary by about half an hour. When it goes, expect an angled plume about 70–75 feet high that runs for roughly 2–4 minutes. The finale often shifts from water to steam, complete with a charming “steam‑engine” chug.

How to Read the Signs (and Not Miss It)

Two small side vents typically start before the main event—the first can begin 15–30 minutes ahead, the second joins closer to showtime. Watch for splashes building between them where the main vent sits; when the height holds, the eruption is imminent. Brilliant Pool, which shares Daisy’s water source, is another clue: when it’s refilled, the system is recharged and waiting on heat.

Nearby Action While You Wait

This is a group neighborhood—Comet Geyser often entertains while you’re staking out Daisy. Keen geyser‑watchers also note periods when a small neighbor, Baby Daisy, has similar behavior on a smaller scale (activity cycles come and go).

Getting There & Amenities

Reach Daisy via the paved path/boardwalk from Old Faithful; the Daisy Group loop splits so you can choose the side with the best wind to avoid spray. Expect minimal amenities at the feature itself (some benches, no shelter). Restrooms, food, and services are back at the Old Faithful hub; there’s no dedicated parking at Daisy.

Best Time to Visit

Time your walk to a posted prediction from the Old Faithful Visitor Center or the park’s prediction tools. Arrive 15–30 minutes early—especially if a side vent has started—to claim a bench and pick the downwind side. If conditions are breezy or sunny, bring layers, sun protection, and water; there’s no shade or cover here.

Pros

One of the park’s more predictable geysers with posted prediction times
Photogenic, angled eruptions with benches and multiple viewpoints on a spur loop

Cons

No restrooms or dedicated parking at the geyser; it’s a walk from Old Faithful
Predictions have a ±30 minute window, so waits in sun or wind are common

Tips

Check prediction times at the Old Faithful Visitor Center or the park app and plan your walk accordingly.
If the first side vent starts bubbling, expect Daisy within about 15–30 minutes.
Pick the loop side with the wind at your back to avoid spray and steam.
There are no restrooms or dedicated parking at the geyser; park at Old Faithful and walk the boardwalk.
Watch Brilliant Pool—when it’s full again, an eruption is getting closer.