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Yellowstone National Park — Lone Star Geyser is one of Yellowstone National Park’s most consistent and overlooked geothermal features. A classic cone-type geyser, it is formed from silica sinter, a mineral left behind as silica-rich hot water rises, cools and deposits material over time. This process has built the geyser’s distinctive cone.

While many quickly jump to the conclusion that its name is derived from the classic 1980s space opera parody film SpaceBalls, Scientist-in-Charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, Mike Poland knows the real origin and decided it was time set the story straight.

Lone Star erupts on a remarkably steady interval of about every three hours, a pattern that has held since at least the 1880s. Each eruption begins with smaller bursts before building into a sustained column of water and steam that can reach nearly 50 feet and last for several minutes. After the main eruption, the geyser enters a steam phase that can continue for an extended period.

Yellowstone’s broader geothermal system also remained active in March 2026. The University of Utah Seismograph Stations recorded 61 earthquakes in the region, with the largest measuring magnitude 1.9. Ground deformation data showed a pause in uplift along the north caldera rim. Steamboat Geyser did not erupt during the month, but Echinus Geyser, which reactivated in February after several years of dormancy, produced a water eruption on March 12. Instruments also detected an eruption at Black Diamond Pool in Biscuit Basin on March 9 using acoustic, seismic and temperature data.

For visitors, Lone Star offers a reliable eruption schedule and a quieter alternative to more crowded geysers, while still showcasing the power and consistency of Yellowstone’s geothermal activity.

Lone Star Geyser Trail

This pleasant, partially paved trail follows an old service road beside the Firehole River to the geyser. Lone Star Geyser erupts up to 45 feet (13.7 m) from a 12-foot (3.6 m) cone approximately every three hours. The Lone Star Geyser trail near Old Faithful is a trail/bike path that is accessible by wheelchair or other mobility devices.

Safety notes: Cyclists must dismount at the end of the asphalt and walk the last few hundred feet.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Activity: Hiking
Pets allowed: No
Fee: None
Location: Upper Geyser Basin

Francis Xavier is a seasoned writer for Unofficial Networks, bringing a lifetime of outdoor experience to his work. Having lived in a ski resort town for years he has a deep connection to mountain culture....