This cone geyser was first located in Wyoming in 1870, during the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition. It was the first geyser in the park to receive a name, by the U.S. Representative from Indiana, Henry D. Washburn. The aperture through which the jet was projected was an irregular oval, three feet by seven in diameter. There are about 500 steam vents and/or geysers in Yellowstone National Park, but this is the only geyser that is predictable with about 90 percent accuracy by the park rangers. Like clockwork, this geographical marvel spews a skyward stream of water roughly every 90 minutes. Eruptions can shoot 3,700 to 8,400 gallons of boiling water to a height of 106 to 185 feet and lasting from 1.5 to 5 minutes. In the early days of the park, in the 1880’s, this geyser was often used as a natural Laundromat, with people placing dirty clothes over the crater.

Today this site is treated with the respect generally bestowed upon a national historic landmark, which it became along with the nearby Old Faithful Inn, which was built in 1903-1904 and is considered to be the largest log structure in the world. Choice hotels near Old Faithful will turn an action-packed day at Yellowstone into a calm and serene evening. We have a great selection of properties close by making it easy for you to find convenient accommodations. Whenever you’re ready to gaze upon this jet stream on dry land, our helpful staff is waiting to take your reservation. Book a guest room with us online today.