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Overview
Lion Geyser is a cone geyser on Geyser Hill in the Upper Geyser Basin, just a short boardwalk stroll from the Old Faithful hub. It’s part of the Lion Group (with Little Cub, Lioness, and Big Cub) and gets its name from the deep, startling “roar” that often accompanies its steam phase.
What You’ll See
When active, Lion can throw water up to about 90 feet for roughly 1–7 minutes. It often erupts in a short series within one cycle, with a powerful steam phase that delivers the namesake roar. Nearby features in the Lion Group sometimes “interact,” so it’s a fun spot to linger and watch the basin’s rhythm.
How It Works (in plain English)
Geysers like Lion rely on narrow constrictions in underground plumbing. Water percolates down, heats up from Yellowstone’s shallow magma system, and builds steam pressure until—whoosh—an eruption. The Lion complex’s waters are near‑boiling and alkaline (around pH 8.8), and you’ll notice colorless/yellow tones in the hottest water with orange, brown, or green where cooler flows host thermophiles.
Getting There
Walk the well‑maintained boardwalk network on Geyser Hill from the Old Faithful area. You’ll find big parking lots and services at the Old Faithful complex; then it’s an easy, signed stroll to Lion Geyser.
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning or late afternoon beats the heaviest crowds in peak season.
- There’s no official prediction for Lion, so patience pays off. If you can, linger after an eruption to catch the roaring steam and possible follow‑ups.
- For photos, a calm morning can help steam behave; Heart Spring makes a classic foreground toward Lion.
Tips for Seeing an Eruption
- Ask rangers or “geyser gazers” for the latest activity before you head out.
- If you see or hear forceful rumbling and a burst of steam, an eruption may be brewing—hang tight.
Safety and Etiquette
Stay on boardwalks and obey all signs; hydrothermal water can cause severe burns. Supervise kids and never touch or disturb thermal mats.
Wildlife
Bison and other wildlife roam the area. Give them plenty of space and follow posted rules—your best photos come from distance and patience.
Pros
- Signature lion-like roar during the steam phase
- Close boardwalk viewing on Geyser Hill
Cons
- Unpredictable wait times and not on the prediction boards
- Upper Geyser Basin crowds peak midday
Tips
- Arrive early or late to dodge the Upper Geyser Basin rush.
- Linger after the first burst to hear the roaring steam and catch follow‑ups.
- Ask rangers or geyser gazers about recent Lion Group activity.
- Start from the Old Faithful complex so you can use facilities before the walk.
