What causes Old Faithful to go off?
What causes Old Faithful to go off? Geysers like Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park erupt periodically because of loops or side-chambers in their underground plumbing, according to recent studies by volcanologists at the University of California, Berkeley.
Does Old Faithful smell?
If you've ever visited Old Faithful and the other geysers at Yellowstone National Park, you've likely come away with two reactions. First, it's one of the most captivating sights in all of nature. Second, the place stinks like rotting eggs.
How deep does Old Faithful go?
By locating these tremor signals, the fluid pathway of Old Faithful geyser down to a depth of ~260 feet (80 meters) is illuminated.
How do you know when Old Faithful is about to erupt?
Old Faithful “plays” prior to an eruption with splashes of boiling water that may reach as high as 20 feet (6 m). A full eruption usually begins from this play. Once the eruption starts, the splashes grow larger and larger until the eruption reaches its full height.
What is the best time to go to Old Faithful?
The mornings (dawn until 11 a.m.) and evenings (6 p.m. until dusk) are perfect window times for beating the tour groups and family wagons and securing a spot with an uninterrupted view. If you prefer the morning, all you need is a trusty alarm clock, maybe a strong cup of coffee and an early start to the day.
How hot is Yellowstone water?
However, Yellowstone is also an active geothermal area with hot springs emerging at ~92°C (~198°F) (the boiling point of water at Yellowstone's mean altitude) and steam vents reported as high as 135°C (275°F).
Why does Old Faithful go off?
But because the water is deep underground it is also at a high pressure that prevents it from becoming steam. Eventually the superheated water becomes hot enough to vaporize, triggering an explosive eruption of water and steam at the geyser's vent.
How much does it cost to see Old Faithful?
Does it cost money to see Old Faithful? No, but Yellowstone does require a $35 entrance fee that's valid for 7 days. The pass allows you to view all attractions within the park, including Old Faithful.