Observation Point–Solitary Geyser Loop

Overview

Short, sweet, and surprisingly quiet for the Old Faithful area. This loop climbs to Observation Point for a panoramic, crowd-beating view of Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin, then swings to Solitary Geyser—a clear blue pool rimmed with geyserite—before dropping back to the basin. Expect about 1.9 miles total with roughly 200–260 feet of gain. If you only go to the overlook and return, it’s roughly a mile; the loop adds a mellow wander to Solitary Geyser.

Route and Logistics

Start from the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center and walk about 0.3 miles counter-clockwise on the boardwalk. Turn right at the Geyser Hill sign, cross the Firehole River, and look for the signed trail on the right. Switchbacks and a few stone steps take you to Observation Point. For the loop, continue past the overlook and follow signs toward Solitary Geyser (about 0.3 miles from the junction), then rejoin the Upper Geyser Basin paths to close the circuit. Parking is abundant around the Old Faithful complex (Inn/Lodge/Visitor Center).

What You’ll See

From Observation Point, you’re eye-level with the basin: Old Faithful, the historic inn, and a sea of steaming vents and geysers. It’s one of the best places to watch an eruption without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowd. The loop adds Solitary Geyser—a photogenic pool with a raised mineral rim—and passes through conifer forest and pine-studded meadows where bison sometimes roam. This is the heart of the Upper Geyser Basin, home to the highest concentration of geysers on Earth, and it connects to signed spurs across Geyser Hill (including big-name eruptions elsewhere in the basin).

Best Time to Hike

Aim for early morning or late afternoon for calmer boardwalks, gentler light, and an easier climb. Spring can hang onto snow and ice; summer is busiest but still manageable if you start early. Time your ascent with Old Faithful’s posted prediction so you’re at the overlook 15–25 minutes before the show. On cold or cloudy days, dense steam can partially obscure the eruption—just a reality of geothermal weather.

Difficulty & Conditions

It’s short but earns a “moderate” tag thanks to the steady switchbacks. Surfaces vary from dirt and stone steps to boardwalks; not stroller-friendly. In spring and shoulder seasons, expect muddy or icy patches—descents can be slick. Carry a bit of water and take the climb at an easy pace.

Safety Notes

Wildlife is common here. Give bison and any bears wide space and carry bear spray if you have it. Stay on signed trails and boardwalks around all hydrothermal features. Pets aren’t allowed on park trails or boardwalks.

If You Want More

Still keen after the loop? Continue exploring the Upper Geyser Basin network to seek out predictable crowd-pleasers like Castle, Grand, Daisy, or Riverside—easy to tack on once you’re back in the basin.