Place · 1.9 mi away
Overview
Lone Star is a classic cone geyser tucked away off the Grand Loop, rewarding a mellow riverside approach with eruptions that can reach around 45 feet from a 12‑foot cone. It’s a favorite for folks who want a more relaxed, less crowded show than the big-name boardwalks.
Getting There & The Route
The trail starts a few miles south of the Old Faithful overpass, just beyond the Kepler Cascades lot. You’ll follow an old service road along the Firehole River—partly paved, then gravel—on a mostly flat path. The round-trip is roughly 5 to 5.3 miles, with very little elevation gain. Bicycles are allowed and popular here; riders must dismount and walk the last few hundred feet near the geyser.
Eruptions: What to Expect
Lone Star typically erupts about every three hours, but the interval can swing by an hour or two. The show is worth it: a long, vigorous blast of water and steam from that photogenic cone. At the geyser you’ll often find a simple logbook where visitors record the previous eruption time—use it to gauge whether you’re in for a short pause or a longer picnic.
Amenities
Parking at the trailhead is limited. There’s a simple vault/composting toilet at the trailhead, but no potable water there; plan to fill bottles in the Old Faithful area before you go. The riverside walk offers plenty of scenic spots to wait out the interval.
Wildlife & Safety
This is bear country—carry bear spray and store food properly while you wait. Mid-summer can bring mosquitoes along the river, so repellent pays off. As always near thermal areas, stay on the established route and respect closures.
Best Time to Visit
Arrive early to snag a parking spot and to give yourself cushion for the eruption window. If you can time your start to arrive within an hour of the last logged eruption, you’ll maximize your odds of catching the main event without a long wait. Biking the approach is the smartest play if you’re tight on time.
Pros
- Erupts about every 3 hours with long, dramatic displays
- Quieter alternative to the busier boardwalk geysers
- Flat riverside route; bikes allowed most of the way
Cons
- Small, often full parking area at the trailhead
- Timing can vary by 1–2 hours, so waits are common
Tips
- Arrive early; the small trailhead lot fills quickly.
- Bike the flat approach and plan to walk the last few hundred feet.
- Check the eruption logbook at the geyser to estimate the next show.
- Bring bug spray in mid-summer and plenty of water and snacks.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it while you wait along the river.
