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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
36 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
1.4 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Porcelain Basin Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Porcelain Basin Trail is an easy, family-friendly adventure. This trail passes through a series of geothermal features including geysers, mud pots, pools, and vents. This route is popular with locals and tourists and a visit is very worthwhile.

Route Description for Porcelain Basin Trail

The Porcelain Basin Trail is a gorgeous hike in Yellowstone National Park. This route is very popular, especially in the summer, so be prepared for lots of kids and tourists sharing the trail. If you are visiting Yellowstone in the summer, we recommend heading out on this trail early in the morning to beat the crowds. With countless bubbling crystalline hot springs and geysers. The Porcelain Basin Trail is an incredible display of the geothermal wonder of Yellowstone National Park.

Beginning at the Norris Geyser Museum, follow the trail a few hundred yards northward to the boardwalk. At the boardwalk, take a right to follow the Porcelain Basin circuit counterclockwise. At the first divide in the boardwalk, take the path on your right to do a quick out-and-back to Nuphar Lake, then return to the boardwalk to continue your hike past a plethora of geysers and hot springs back to the beginning of the circuit.

Once you have completed the boardwalk circuit, walk back to the Norris Geyser Basin Museum and be sure to check out the exhibits inside before heading home.

Getting to the Porcelain Basin Trail Trailhead

This hike begins at the Norris Geyser Basin Museum off of Grand Loop Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    May to October

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Porcelain Basin Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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