Splendid Geyser has two main connected pools with many smaller pools or vents in the area of outflow from the main pools. The pools are constantly active in boiling, occasionally more active at times, but not erupting. The last known eruption was in 1997. The main pools are surrounded by rounded deposits of geyserite along with a sawtooth geyserite rim. In the shallow pools surrounding the main pools and in the runoff channels are orange thermophiles. The smaller vents in the surrounding area also have small sinter rims with orange thermophile rings.

Splendid Geyser has an average temperate of 185.8°F (85.4°C), an average pH of 8.2, and an average conductivity of 2373 uS/cm.

Geysers

Geysers have constrictions in their plumbing systems that prevent water from moving freely to the surface where heat would escape. Water beneath the constrictions creates a buildup of steam. Eventually the steam pushes water past the constrictions and the geyser erupts.

Upper Geyser Basin

The majority of world’s active geysers are in the Upper Geyser Basin, including Old Faithful. Only four other places in the world have large concentrations of hydrothermal features: Russia (Kamchatka), Chile, New Zealand, and Iceland.

The heat for the hydrothermal features comes from Yellowstone’s volcano. Molten rock or magma may be as close as 3-8 miles (5-13 km) underground. Rain and snow supply water that seeps down several thousand feet (more than a kilometer) below the surface where it is heated.

Underground cracks form a natural plumbing system. Hot water rises through the plumbing to produce hot springs and geysers.

Use Caution in Hydrothermal Areas

• Stay on boardwalks and designated trails.
• Hydrothermal water can severely burn you.
• Never run, push, or shove.
• Supervise children at all times.
• Do not scratch hydrothermal mats.

You are responsible for your safety.

Think safety, act safely. Yellowstone is a dangerous place.