Self-guided audio tour of West Thumb Basin of Yellowstone

Explore the West Thumb Geyser Basin trail guided by an engaging audio tour. This guide will provide you with fascinating stories, useful tips, and clear directions as you traverse the boardwalk beside Yellowstone Lake at your own leisure.Venture into a lakeside world of vivid springs, eruptive geysers, and deep pools, all shaped by the volcano beneath Yellowstone. As you journey, you'll gain insight into how fluctuating temperatures, microbes, and subterranean plumbing contribute to the ever-changing colours and features of West Thumb. Each stop along the way uncovers a blend of science, history, and an ideal photo opportunity.The trail includes several major highlights, such as Abyss Pool, one of Yellowstone’s deepest hot springs that plunges about 53 feet. This former eruptor has a dramatic past that continues to captivate scientists. Blue Funnel Spring, once a vigorous feature, now feeds Abyss Pool; its cooling waters are a testament to the basin’s constant evolution. Fishing Cone is another must-see curiosity, a famed lakeshore geyser where people once "boiled" trout, an activity now prohibited. Finally, you'll see the warm colours of Thumb Geyser, caused by the thermophilic microbes that cover this formation.

Highlights

  • This tour introduces you to the fascinating world of the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail
  • You'll learn about the science and history behind the ever-changing colours and features of West Thumb
  • There will be stops at major highlights like Abyss Pool, Blue Funnel Spring, Fishing Cone, and Thumb Geyser
  • A blend of science, history, and photo opportunities awaits at each stop
  • It's a self-paced journey through Yellowstone's geothermal wonders with clear narration at each stop
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Activity package

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Facilities

Free cancellation
mobile
3 hours
Available in English

What's included

  • Audio-guided tour
  • Map. Downloadable APP
  • Digital guidebook

Not included

  • Food and drinks
  • Entrance fees
  • Transportation

Where you'll meet

Start at the West Thumb Information Station in Yellowstone, or join anywhere along the tour route. After booking, search your email for “Download Audio Tour" and follow the instructions to download now over Wi-Fi/cell service. Then, preview the start location/s and tour route in the GuideAlong app.

Operated by

GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide)

Important information

Know in advance: * This is a self-guided tour; there will be no physical person guiding you, nor transportation * You will receive a confirmation email with all the instructions to install the app and download the tour. It's suggested to download it before you arrive at the location * The tour requires a supported mobile device for navigation: an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, an Android device running Android 9 or later, or an iPad/tablet with GPS and cellular service * It will be possible to see the main highlights in a single day, but it's suggested to plan for extra time to explore all areas and have time for hiking

Location

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