thermal · high value
Fountain Paint Pot
A compact loop combines hot springs, geysers, fumaroles, and mudpots—and a microorganism that changed biology.
Firehole, Madison, and lower Gibbon closed to fishing
As of July 15, 2026, the Firehole and Madison rivers and tributaries, plus the Gibbon and tributaries downstream of Norris Campground, are fully closed to fishing after 80–86°F water and fish mortality.
Checked Jul 26, 2026
Yellowstone fire danger is HIGH
The dedicated NPS fire page and July 14 release list HIGH fire danger. No fire restrictions were in place when checked; both danger and restrictions can change.
Checked Jul 26, 2026
Parkwide chip sealing can move without notice
NPS says chip sealing can cause delays up to 30 minutes at various Yellowstone locations in 2026. Slow down on loose gravel and increase following distance.
Checked Jul 26, 2026
Chapter
Four kinds of hydrothermal feature
Narration
Four kinds of hydrothermal feature
What to notice
- All four major thermal feature types
- Mudpots
- Thermus aquaticus story
Field notes
- Trail
- 0.5-mile loop
- Accessible section
- Level through Silex Spring
- Scientific discovery
- Thermus aquaticus discovered in this area