Discover Biscuit Basin: A Hidden Gem in Yellowstone National Park

 

Introduction

Tucked away in the heart of Yellowstone National Park, Biscuit Basin is a mesmerizing geothermal area that offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into nature’s power and beauty. While it may not be as famous as Old Faithful or the Grand Prismatic Spring, Biscuit Basin is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Yellowstone. It features vibrant hot springs, erupting geysers, and scenic walking trails—all packed into a relatively compact and accessible area.

In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about Biscuit Basin: its history, natural wonders, hiking options, wildlife, photography tips, and how to make the most of your visit.

 What is Biscuit Basin?

Biscuit Basin is a geothermal area located just north of Old Faithful in the Upper Geyser Basin region of Yellowstone. It’s named after the unusual biscuit-like mineral formations that once surrounded its signature feature, Sapphire Pool. These "biscuits" were created by mineral deposits from the pool’s eruptions, giving the basin its curious name.

Although many of the formations were destroyed in a 1959 earthquake, the name—and the beauty—remains. Today, Biscuit Basin is known for its steaming hot springs, erupting geysers, and easy boardwalk trails that allow visitors to explore safely.

Getting to Biscuit Basin

Location: Biscuit Basin is located approximately 2 miles north of Old Faithful along the Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone National Park.

GPS Coordinates: 44.4722° N, 110.8508° W

Parking: A small parking lot is available at the entrance to the basin. During peak season, it can fill quickly, so try to visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

Highlights of Biscuit Basin

Despite being one of the smaller thermal areas in Yellowstone, Biscuit Basin is packed with fascinating features. Here's what you can expect to see:

1. Sapphire Pool

This is the star attraction of Biscuit Basin. True to its name, Sapphire Pool shines with an almost unreal deep-blue hue. The water is so clear and bright that it resembles a gemstone more than a geothermal spring.

Originally known for the biscuit-like sinter formations around its edges, Sapphire Pool dramatically changed after the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake. The pool became more active, and its eruptions destroyed many of the biscuit formations. Still, it remains one of the most visually stunning features in the area.

2. Shell Spring

Another photogenic hot spring with constantly bubbling water. Shell Spring often displays a range of colors from turquoise blue to milky white, depending on the sunlight and microbial activity.

3. Jewel Geyser

Jewel Geyser is one of the few geysers in Biscuit Basin that erupts on a fairly regular schedule—about every 7 to 10 minutes. Its eruptions aren’t as tall or dramatic as Old Faithful, but they are frequent, charming, and fun to watch up close from the safety of the boardwalk.

4. Avoca Spring

A lesser-known but beautiful spring with vivid colors, Avoca Spring is a favorite among photographers and those looking for a peaceful moment away from the crowd.

Biscuit Basin Boardwalk Trail

The Biscuit Basin boardwalk loop is a short, family-friendly trail that takes you through the heart of the geothermal area.

• Length: Approximately 0.6 miles (1 km)

• Duration: 20–30 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy

• Accessibility: The trail is flat and wheelchair-accessible in dry conditions.

This boardwalk allows for a safe and immersive experience, guiding visitors past hot springs, geysers, and colorful thermal pools. Interpretive signs provide fascinating information about the geothermal features, their names, and their histories.

Hike to Mystic Falls from Biscuit Basin

For those looking to extend their adventure, Biscuit Basin is the trailhead for the Mystic Falls Trail—one of Yellowstone’s hidden hiking gems.

• Distance: 2.4 miles round trip

• Elevation Gain: 300 feet

• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

The trail leads you through pine forests and eventually rewards you with a view of the stunning Mystic Falls, a 70-foot waterfall cascading down from the Madison Plateau. If you’re up for a longer hike, you can take the loop extension to an overlook that offers panoramic views of Biscuit Basin and the surrounding landscape.

Wildlife and Nature Around Biscuit Basin

While Biscuit Basin is primarily known for its geothermal features, it’s also a good spot for wildlife sightings. Visitors have reported seeing:

• Bison grazing near the basin

• Elk passing through the meadows

• Bald eagles soaring above

• Occasionally, black bears in the surrounding forested areas

Remember to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife—at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other animals.

Photography Tips for Biscuit Basin

Capturing the beauty of Biscuit Basin is a dream for photographers. Here are a few tips to help you get the best shots:

• Visit early or late in the day for softer lighting and fewer crowds.

• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the colors of the hot springs.

• Bring a tripod if you want to capture slow-motion geyser eruptions or wide landscape shots.

• Watch the steam—depending on the temperature and wind, it can either add drama or obscure your shot.

Best Time to Visit Biscuit Basin

Spring to Fall (May–October) is the best time to visit Biscuit Basin. During this period:

• Roads are open and accessible

• Trails are clear of snow

• Geysers and springs are more visible without heavy fog or frost

Winter access is limited due to snow, and most roads in the area close. However, snowcoach tours may offer access to nearby areas with dramatic winter landscapes if you're visiting in the off-season.

Safety Tips for Visiting Biscuit Basin

The geothermal features in Biscuit Basin are beautiful—but they are also dangerous. Follow these safety guidelines:

• Stay on designated boardwalks and trails. The ground can be thin and unstable outside marked paths.

• Supervise children at all times.

• Don’t throw objects into geysers or hot springs. It disrupts natural processes and is illegal.

• Avoid touching the water. Temperatures can exceed 190°F (88°C) and cause severe burns.

Final Thoughts on Biscuit Basin

Biscuit Basin is one of Yellowstone’s most colorful and accessible geothermal areas. From the jewel-toned Sapphire Pool to the delightful eruptions of Jewel Geyser, it offers a rich variety of sights without the overwhelming crowds of the more famous spots.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Yellowstone or a seasoned explorer looking for something new, don’t skip Biscuit Basin. It’s a short stop that leaves a long-lasting impression—with opportunities for photography, hiking, and just soaking in the surreal landscape that makes Yellowstone so unique.