No park-wide shuttle; private shuttles available; public shuttle planned for 2026.

Thumb Geyser Trail: Easy Boardwalk Loop (0.6

Q: Is the trail wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The boardwalk is designed for accessibility.

Q: Do I need a special permit?

No, but you must pay the Yellowstone entrance fee.

Q: Is there a restroom along the trail?

Restrooms are at the trailhead vault; there are no facilities on the boardwalk.

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Overview

About This Trail

Thumb Geyser is a short, wheelchair-friendly loop at West Thumb Geyser Basin. The route stays on a well-maintained boardwalk with minimal elevation change (roughly 50 ft total) and a 20–30 minute casual stroll, though you can linger for longer. Expect thermal features, bear and bison presence nearby, and sun exposure; carry water since there are no sources on the trail.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy Stroll

Trail Highlights

Colorful geothermal pools along a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk with a lake backdrop

Insider Tips

• Hike clockwise for potentially better initial views. • Aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and possibly spot wildlife.

Best Season to Hike

Late May through mid-October

Hiking Tips

Carry at least 2 liters of water.
Wear waterproof shoes; boardwalk can be slick when wet.
Wear a hat and sunscreen; sun exposure is common.
Bring rain gear; weather can shift quickly.
Traction devices may help in late-season ice.

Family Info

Very safe and suitable for children due to the boardwalk and short distance

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 50 ft

Duration: 20–30 minutes for casual exploration; up to 2 hours if you linger

Difficulty: Easy Stroll

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Boardwalk with some paved sections at the beginning

Getting There

Trailhead: West Thumb Geyser Basin parking area, off Highway 20, north of West Thumb Junction

Parking: Large lot with ample space, including oversize spots for campers and trailers

Fills Up: Main lot can fill during peak hours (8:00 AM–6:00 PM); arrive before 8:30 AM or after 4:00 PM for best parking

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Entrance fee required for Yellowstone; pay at entrance or online

Fees: $35 standard entrance pass (valid up to seven days)

Shuttle Available

No official park-wide shuttle. Private shuttle services and guided tours are available. A public shuttle is planned for 2026.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Well-marked

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None on the trail; carry sufficient water

Shade: Partial shade; some sections exposed to sun

Cell Service: Unknown

Hazards:

Thin, fragile ground over boiling water; risk of burns from acidic pools; keep distance from wildlife; boards can be slick when wet

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Very crowded during peak summer hours; visit early morning or shoulder seasons for quieter experience

Peak Times: 8 am–6 pm during peak season; avoid by visiting early morning or late afternoon

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Wheelchair-accessible boardwalk

Family Notes:

Very safe and suitable for children due to the boardwalk and short distance

Nearby Facilities

Vault toilet at trailhead; large parking area; no restrooms on the trail

FAQs

Are there bears in the area?

Yes. Maintain distance and make noise; stay on the boardwalk.

Is the trail wheelchair accessible?

Do I need a special permit?

Is there a shuttle?

Is there a restroom along the trail?

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Thumb Geyser