Shortly after leaving Madison Junction, we are greeted by the steaming geothermal area. The first feature we encounter is a predominantly mud pot landscape, named for the red, yellow, and brown hues of the mud here, caused by varying oxidation states of iron in the mud. A highlight of the mud pots' geothermal activity is the bubbling, caused by gases emitted by the Yellowstone volcano. These bubbling phenomena vary with the seasons.

Leaving the Fountain Paint Pot area, a short 10-minute drive brings us to the renowned Grand Prismatic Spring, also known as the Grand Rainbow Hot Spring. It holds the distinction of being the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. Spanning approximately 75 to 91 meters in width and plunging to depths of 49 meters, it releases a staggering 2,000 liters of water per minute, maintaining a temperature of around 71°C. The Grand Prismatic Spring serves as an iconic symbol of Yellowstone's geothermal wonders, boasting a diameter surpassing 100 meters and presenting a stunning array of colors, ranging from vivid blues and greens to striking yellows, oranges, and reds. Undoubtedly, it stands as the park's largest and most visually captivating thermal feature.

After a 15-minute drive, we will arrive at Yellowstone's largest visitor center and iconic attraction: Old Faithful. It is an intermittent geyser located in Yellowstone National Park, named for its regular eruptions. It was named during the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition in 1870 and was the first named geyser in Yellowstone National Park. Its current eruption interval is around 90 minutes, and each eruption lasts 4-5 minutes, with water columns reaching over 40 meters high, making it a spectacular sight. The geyser and the adjacent Old Faithful Inn are listed as part of the Old Faithful Historic District.

After a 30-minute drive, a stretch of mirror-smooth lake water will come into view. This is the West Thumb Geyser Basin on the shores of Yellowstone Lake. Formed some 150,000 years ago due to the subsidence of the Earth's crust, this basin presents a fascinating spectacle where hot springs combine with the lake waters, creating a misty ambiance. Steam rises from the hot springs, mingling with the serene waters of Yellowstone Lake, set against a backdrop of blue skies and white clouds, forming a unique landscape distinct from other thermal areas in Yellowstone. This area serves as a bay of Yellowstone Lake, where numerous geysers congregate, each with its own array of colors at their vents—some transparent green, others dark hues resembling cement. Together, these myriad geysers present a beautiful, fantasy-like scene.

Yellowstone Lake Scenic Cruise Come aboard the Lake Queen II for a one-hour guided tour of the largest freshwater lake above 7,000 feet in the United States. The boat departs the Bridge Bay Marina to cruise on Yellowstone Lake with up to seven different times to choose from. Along the way you will learn about the Lake Area Historical District, the remains of the SS E.C. Waters which you will view, and other amazing information that this area holds. You will be watching for eagles, shorebirds, and occasional elk and bison sightings on the shoreline.