Morning Glory Pool

2.8 miles round-trip; easy paved stroll with geysers along the route.

Insider tip

Start at dawn or dusk to avoid crowds and heat.

Insider tip

The Biscuit Basin alternative route shortens the hike.

When to come

Summer and Fall. Start early to beat crowds; access when park roads are open (mid-April to mid-November).

Trail

TrailOPERATIONAL★ 4.9

Morning Glory Pool Trail is an easy, paved out-and-back starting at Biscuit Basin. It stays close to geothermal sights with minimal elevation, taking about 60–90 minutes if you pause to view the pools and nearby geysers. Expect crowds, but the geothermal sights reward a patient pace. Stay on boardwalks; hydrothermal ground is dangerous.

This dramatic, multi-colored hot spring in Yellowstone National Park is a popular site.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
2.8
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty
easy
Difficulty Level
Easy Stroll

Trail profile

Distance Miles
2.8
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty
easy
Difficulty Level
Easy Stroll
Elevation Gain Feet
79
Estimated Time
60-90 minutes
Trail Surface
Primarily paved, with sections of boardwalk
Trail Features
  • Morning Glory Pool
  • Castle Geyser
  • Grotto Geyser
  • Riverside Geyser
  • Artemisia Geyser
Trail Highlights
The payoff is Morning Glory Pool itself and a string of geysers along the Biscuit Basin corridor.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Biscuit Basin Trailhead (recommended for shorter access) or near Old Faithful Visitor Education Center
Parking Lot Size
Small Biscuit Basin lot; Old Faithful has a large, busy lot
Parking Fill Time
Biscuit Basin fills very early in summer; Old Faithful is crowded; overflow parking along Grand Loop Road may be required
Shuttle Required
No
Shuttle Details
No shuttle required for this trail.

Permits & conditions

Permits Required
No
Permit Details
Park entrance fees apply
Fees
Park entrance is charged per vehicle at the gate; a standard private-vehicle pass is valid for 7 days.
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Snow can close portions in late spring; mud season not a major concern on paved/boardwalk

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
Yes
Water Sources
No natural water sources along the trail; carry all water
Accessibility
Mostly accessible; paved or boardwalk; kid-friendly with close supervision around thermal features

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Hydrothermal hazards
  • Wildlife (bears, bison)
  • Crowds
Hazard Details
Stay on boardwalks; fragile ground; keep 100 yards from bears/wolves and 25 yards from bison; be mindful of sun and heat
Cell Service
Limited
Crowd Level
High
Peak Crowd Times
Peak season mornings and mid-day; start early or visit shoulder seasons
Best Season
Summer and Fall
Best Time To Visit
Summer and Fall. Start early to beat crowds; access when park roads are open (mid-April to mid-November).
Tips Advice
  • Carry at least 3 liters of water per person; no excuses.
  • Start early to beat crowds and midday sun.
  • Stay on boardwalks; be mindful of hydrothermal hazards and wildlife; wear sunscreen and a hat.

More details

Park Area
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Trail Markers
Well-marked boardwalk and trail signage
Dogs Allowed
Not allowed on the trail
Biking Allowed
Not allowed on the trail
Shade Level
Largely exposed; limited shade
Emergency Contacts
Call 911 in an emergency; otherwise contact Yellowstone National Park rangers
Map Recommended
Yes
Alltrails Link
www.alltrails.com
Snow Dates
Snow can linger into late spring
Mud Season
Not significant on paved/boardwalk sections
Bug Season
Mosquitoes can be present near water
Insider Tips
  • Start at dawn or dusk to avoid crowds and heat.
  • The Biscuit Basin alternative route shortens the hike.
  • Check eruption predictions for nearby geysers to potentially pair sightings.
Family Friendly Notes
Very safe for children due to paved paths; supervise closely around thermal features
Nearby Facilities
Restrooms at Old Faithful and Biscuit Basin; parking at Biscuit Basin and Old Faithful
Review Summary
Hikers praise the easy pace and proximity to geothermal sights, though crowds and parking remain common complaints. It's a family-friendly option on a paved path, but plan for traffic and busy conditions. The close-up glimpses of Morning Glory Pool and the linked geysers are a consistent draw.

Location

Morning Glory Pool signage at Yellowstone National Park explains the pool's colors and geothermal activity.Morning Glory Pool geyser shoots a column of steam and water from a mineral-rimmed pool in Yellowstone National Park.Morning Glory Pool glows blue in Yellowstone National Park, with steaming edges and sparse trees in the distance.Morning Glory Pool at Yellowstone National Park, a vivid multicolor hot spring surrounded by mineral terraces and steaming edges.

Frequently asked questions

Are dogs allowed on the Morning Glory Pool hike?

Not on the trail. Dogs must stay in vehicles or in designated areas away from trails and thermal features.

Is it safe for kids?

Yes, the paved boardwalks are kid-friendly, but keep children close and supervise around thermal areas at all times.

Do I need a permit to hike Morning Glory Pool?

No permit is required for day use; Yellowstone entrance fees apply at the park entrance.

What should I bring for hydration and sun protection?

Carry at least 3 liters of water per person and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses; expect exposure on open boardwalks.

When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Early summer or shoulder seasons are best; mornings are typically less crowded than afternoons.

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Bannock Ski Trail

Two miles of meadow skiing with wildlife encounters. Easy terrain for confident beginners.

Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated January 2026. Report an issue.