Red Spouter

Overview

Red Spouter is a quirky hydrothermal oddball along the Fountain Paint Pot boardwalk in the Lower Geyser Basin. It changes personalities with the seasons—sometimes a splashing mudpot, sometimes a steamy fumarole, occasionally behaving like a small hot spring. It’s noisy, odorous, and a fun quick stop as you loop past the area’s hot springs, geysers, mudpots, and vents.

How It Formed

This feature didn’t exist before the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake. That jolt rearranged Yellowstone’s hydrothermal plumbing and opened a new vent here, which evolved into the Red Spouter you see today.

What You’ll See by Season

• Spring to early summer: With the water table high, it often splashes reddish muddy water—classic mudpot vibes.
• Mid to late summer: As things dry out, it thickens and spits mud.
• Late summer into fall: Water drops further and it shifts to a hissing fumarole, venting steam and gases.

How to Visit

Park at the Fountain Paint Pot Trailhead on the Grand Loop Road and stroll the ~0.5-mile boardwalk loop. Red Spouter appears early on the circuit, making it an easy add while you explore nearby pools and geysers. This spot sits between Old Faithful and the Madison/West Entrance side of the park, so it’s a natural stop when crossing the west side.

Tips, Comfort, and Safety

Services at the parking area are limited—bring your own water. The steam can be impressive and the sulfur smell noticeable. Stay on the boardwalks, supervise kids, and respect closures; thermal water and thin ground can cause severe burns.

Best Time to Visit

If you want the splashy, muddy show, come in spring or early summer. Prefer a dramatic hiss and bigger steam plumes? Late season can deliver. Crowds and traffic tend to ease toward evening, and cooler air makes the steam pop—nice for photos.

Wildlife

This loop is all about hydrothermal geology. Wildlife sightings happen park-wide, but this specific boardwalk isn’t a wildlife hotspot.