George A. Algard

“ Shifts in the earth’s crust (earthquakes) result in movements along cracks and fissures in the ground. These tremors usually cause changes in the underground “plumbing systems” of thermal features, thus altering activity patterns. Look for signs of recent activity variations as you walk along the trails, or ask a naturalist if there have been some recent changes. ”

“ We are only visitors here and must not spoil it in any way. It also serves as a great natural research laboratory where scientists from all over the world learn more about geothermal energy. Help us preserve this unique area so that the next generation and those who follow can come and enjoy it in the same grandeur you did.
The Norris Geyser Basin is made up of two or more less separate areas called Porcelain Basin and Back Basin. Both basins are served by trails which begin at the Norris Museum and are shown on this map. ”

“ When one is more active, the other is less. Watch for the 15 foot (4 m.) angled plume from Little Whirligig’s orange vent or listen to the distinctive chugging produced during Big Whirligig’s splashing eruption. As with many geysers, the water level rises in these pools prior to an eruption.
EBONY AND BEAR DEN GEYSERS—are another set of related features. In the ’60’s Bear Den Geyser first appeared and as it increased in activity, Ebony Geyser became dormant. Today Bear Den Geyser erupts in bursts, arcing up to 40 feet (12 m.) from the den-like vent, four to six times daily. ”