Excelsior Geyser Crater in Midway Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming USA, a large steaming hot spring adjacent to Grand Prismatic Spring that continuously discharges mineral-rich thermal water into the Firehole River, shaping the basin’s colour patterns and flow system
Excelsior Geyser Crater is a large geothermal crater containing a deep, mineral-rich pool adjacent to Grand Prismatic Spring. The crater forms a defined circular basin with active water discharge into nearby runoff channels. The composition resolves through scale, colour, and the relationship between the crater and surrounding geothermal features.
44.52627, -110.83674
Gallery
Quick Facts
Access
Short Walk
5–15 min
Elevation Gain
10 m
Best Light
Light works best when overhead or diffuse light reduces glare because it preserves surface detail and tonal separation across the crater.
Why This Light
Season
Year-Round Stable
Summer has clearer visibility with defined colour and surface detail across the crater. Winter increases steam output, partially obscuring the pool and simplifying the scene.
Crowds
Often Busy
Restrictions
Access via boardwalks within Midway Geyser Basin; off-trail movement is prohibited due to hazardous geothermal terrain.