Imperial Geyser Trail

This is a 6.6-mile round-trip out-and-back from Fairy Falls Parking Lot, with about four hours for the walk and stops. The route crosses forest to Fairy Falls, then continues through a damp, open thermal area to Spray and Imperial geysers. It suits hikers who want the geyser basin experience after a longer walk; it is a separate hike from Midway’s boardwalks.

Cross the footbridge and follow the Fairy Falls route. The first stretch is a long approach through young lodgepole pine forest before the waterfall. The lot is very limited, so have your alternate plan ready; the access at the end of Fountain Flat Drive is a different, longer approach and is not the route measured here.

Fairy Falls drops about 200 feet into a forested setting. It is a worthwhile destination on its own if the full geyser walk is more than you want. For Imperial, continue past the falls for roughly 0.6 mile one way through a wetter stretch toward the thermal features.

The continuation reaches Spray Geyser and Imperial Geyser. Imperial’s pool is turquoise, ringed by orange and yellow mineral colors, and often has small eruptions. Stay on the established route around the thermal ground; the visitor path is the safe way to see the features.

Bring water for the long walk. Pets are not allowed on this trail. Keep well away from thermal pools and vents, and stay on the marked path: the ground around geysers can be thin over scalding water.