Discover the Wonders of Painted Pool

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Painted Pool, a vibrant geothermal wonder in Yellowstone National Park, known for its stunning colors and unique formations.

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Nestled in the stunning Yellowstone National Park, Painted Pool is a captivating geothermal feature that enchants visitors with its vivid colors and serene beauty. Known for its striking turquoise waters surrounded by unique mineral formations, this natural wonder offers an unforgettable experience for tourists. As you explore the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail, take time to appreciate the rich geothermal activity that defines this remarkable landscape. The vibrant hues of Painted Pool are a testament to the park's dynamic geology and a must-see for every visitor.

A brief summary to Painted Pool

West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, 82190, US

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Bring a camera to capture the vivid colors of the pool, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the trail can be uneven in some areas.
Stay on designated paths to protect the delicate geothermal features.
Check for any park alerts or advisories regarding trail conditions before your visit.

Getting There

Car

If you are driving within Yellowstone National Park, take the Grand Loop Road and head towards the West Thumb area. Painted Pool is located along the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail. From the West Thumb Junction (intersection of Highway 20 and Grand Loop Road), follow the Grand Loop Road south for approximately 5 miles. Look for the West Thumb Geyser Basin parking area on your left. Park your vehicle and follow the signs to the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail. Painted Pool is a short walk from the trailhead.
Public Transportation

If you are using public transportation, check for shuttle services that operate within Yellowstone National Park. The Xanterra park shuttles connect various locations such as Old Faithful and Canyon Village. You can take a shuttle to the West Thumb area. Once you arrive at the West Thumb Geyser Basin, follow the trail signs to reach Painted Pool. Be sure to confirm the shuttle schedules as they may vary seasonally. Note that shuttle services may incur a fee, typically around $30-$40 for a round trip.
Walking/Hiking

If you are already at the West Thumb Geyser Basin, simply follow the designated walking path from the parking area. The trail is well-marked and takes you through the geyser basin, offering scenic views along the way. Painted Pool is located approximately 0.5 miles from the parking area, and the walk should take about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and stay on the designated paths to protect the delicate geothermal features.

Discover more about Painted Pool

Painted Pool, located within the iconic Yellowstone National Park, is a breathtaking geothermal feature that draws visitors from around the globe. Part of the West Thumb Geyser Basin, this stunning pool is renowned for its vibrant colors, ranging from deep turquoise to bright blue, which are created by the unique mineral content and bacterial life in the water. Surrounded by a variety of geothermal formations and lush landscapes, Painted Pool offers a serene and picturesque setting that is perfect for photography, hiking, and simply soaking in the natural beauty of the park. Visitors to Painted Pool can enjoy a leisurely walk along the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail, which provides access to various geothermal features, including hot springs and fumaroles. The trail is well-maintained, making it accessible for families and individuals of all ages. As you traverse the pathway, be sure to observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area, including birds and other fauna that thrive in this unique ecosystem. The area is particularly enchanting at sunrise or sunset when the colors of the pool are amplified by the soft light, creating a magical atmosphere. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a tranquil spot to unwind, Painted Pool is a must-visit destination in Yellowstone National Park. Its vibrant colors and serene ambiance provide a perfect backdrop for reflection and appreciation of the natural world's wonders. Don't forget to bring your camera and capture the brilliance of this geothermal gem, which showcases the extraordinary beauty of America's first national park.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Continental Divide - Elevation 8,262 Ft.

11.9 km

Explore the breathtaking Continental Divide at Yellowstone National Park, a historic landmark revealing stunning views and rich biodiversity at 8,262 feet high.

Continental Divide - Elevation 8,262 Ft.

Yellowstone Caldera

11.9 km

Explore the breathtaking Yellowstone Caldera, a top natural wonder in Wyoming, filled with geothermal marvels, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Old Faithful Lodge

20.6 km

Discover the rustic charm of Old Faithful Lodge, the perfect base for exploring Yellowstone's geothermal wonders and stunning landscapes.

Old Faithful Viewing Area

20.7 km

Discover the mesmerizing eruptions of Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park, a natural marvel surrounded by stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife.

Great Fountain Geyser

22.4 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Great Fountain Geyser in Yellowstone National Park, where nature's power creates unforgettable moments.

Fishing Bridge Visitor Center

22.4 km

Explore the wonders of Yellowstone National Park at the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center, your gateway to breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Fishing Bridge

22.5 km

Discover the beauty of Fishing Bridge in Yellowstone National Park, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and rich wildlife experiences.

Black Sand Basin

22.9 km

Explore the stunning geothermal features and vibrant landscapes of Black Sand Basin in Yellowstone National Park, a must-visit scenic spot for all nature lovers.

Fountain Paint Pot Trail

23.7 km

Explore the colorful geothermal wonders and scenic beauty of Fountain Paint Pot Trail in Yellowstone National Park, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

Biscuit Basin

23.8 km

Explore Biscuit Basin: A geothermal wonderland in Yellowstone National Park with vibrant hot springs and breathtaking scenery.

Yellowstone Lower Geyser Basin

23.8 km

Discover the breathtaking geothermal wonders of Yellowstone Lower Geyser Basin, a historic natural landmark teeming with vibrant hot springs and geysers.

West Geyser

23.9 km

Experience the breathtaking geothermal wonders of West Geyser in Yellowstone National Park, where nature's beauty unfolds in vibrant colors and spectacular eruptions.

Clepsydra Geyser

23.9 km

Discover the Clepsydra Geyser: A spectacular natural wonder in Yellowstone National Park, erupting regularly and showcasing the beauty of geothermal activity.

Excelsior Geyser Crater

24.2 km

Explore the stunning Excelsior Geyser Crater in Yellowstone National Park, where vibrant geothermal colors and powerful steam create a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Grand Prismatic Spring

24.2 km

Experience the stunning colors and geothermal wonders of Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park, a must-visit natural attraction.

Discover the captivating beauty of the South Rim Trailhead in Yellowstone National Park, where adventure meets breathtaking natural wonders.

Essential places to dine

Grant Village Dining Room

3.1 km

Experience delightful American cuisine surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Yellowstone National Park at Grant Village Dining Room.

Grant Village Lake House Restaurant

3.2 km

Experience delicious American cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views at Grant Village Lake House Restaurant in Yellowstone National Park.

Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room

20.1 km

Savor exquisite cuisine with breathtaking views at Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room in Yellowstone National Park.

Old Faithful General Store Grill

20.7 km

Experience classic American dining amidst the breathtaking scenery of Yellowstone National Park at Old Faithful General Store Grill.

Old Faithful Snow Lodge Geyser Grill

20.8 km

Experience delightful American cuisine amidst breathtaking scenery at Old Faithful Snow Lodge Geyser Grill in Yellowstone National Park.

Wylie’s Canteen at Lake Lodge

20.9 km

Experience delicious made-to-order meals with stunning views at Wylie’s Canteen in Yellowstone National Park.

Old Faithful Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room

20.9 km

Experience exquisite American cuisine amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone National Park at Old Faithful Snow Lodge's Obsidian Dining Room.

Old Faithful Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room

Old Faithful Inn Dining Room

21.0 km

Experience exquisite American cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views at Old Faithful Inn Dining Room in Yellowstone National Park.

Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli

21.1 km

Discover delightful American cuisine at Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone National Park.

Canyon Fountain and Grill

35.8 km

Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking landscapes at Canyon Fountain and Grill in Yellowstone National Park.

Canyon Eatery

35.8 km

Experience delicious American cuisine surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Yellowstone National Park at Canyon Eatery.

Park One Restaurant 黄石酒楼

49.5 km

Discover authentic Chinese flavors at Park One Restaurant in West Yellowstone – perfect for refueling after your adventures!

McDonald's

49.6 km

Conveniently located near Yellowstone National Park, McDonald's in West Yellowstone offers fast food favorites for adventurers on-the-go.

Wild West Pizzeria & Saloon

49.6 km

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The Falafel Spot

49.7 km

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Explore the heart of West Yellowstone at Firehole Trading Co, your go-to gift shop for unique clothing and souvenirs that embody the spirit of adventure.

Yellowstone Outlet

49.7 km

Explore Yellowstone Outlet in West Yellowstone for unbeatable deals on outdoor gear, souvenirs, and more, all while enjoying stunning Montana scenery.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Yellowstone Beer Company

49.8 km

Experience the best of local brews and hearty cuisine at Yellowstone Beer Company, your go-to spot in West Yellowstone.

Grizzly Lounge

49.9 km

Discover the warmth of Montana hospitality at Grizzly Lounge, a charming bar in West Yellowstone offering local brews and cozy ambiance.

Leek's Marina & Pizzeria

54.3 km

Experience delicious pizza amidst the stunning backdrop of Grand Teton National Park at Leek's Marina & Pizzeria.

Blue Heron Lounge

60.0 km

Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cocktails at Blue Heron Lounge, the perfect retreat in Wyoming's majestic landscapes.

Deadman's Bar

63.8 km

Experience the breathtaking views and relaxing atmosphere at Deadman's Bar in Grand Teton National Park, where adventure meets relaxation.

Happy Hour Bar & Grill

68.3 km

Experience the best of West Yellowstone at Happy Hour Bar & Grill, where delicious food and a lively atmosphere await you.

Blue Goose Saloon

69.0 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Blue Goose Saloon, a charming bar in Gardiner, MT, perfect for unwinding after exploring Yellowstone National Park.

Rusty Rail Lounge

69.7 km

Discover the Rusty Rail Lounge in Gardiner, MT - a lively bar and casino perfect for relaxing after adventures in Yellowstone National Park.

Antler Pub & Grill

69.8 km

Savor hearty comfort food in a rustic atmosphere at Antler Pub & Grill, a beloved dining spot in Gardiner, Montana, near Yellowstone National Park.

The Bighorn Bar

70.2 km

Discover The Bighorn Bar in West Yellowstone: a premier grill featuring local flavors and a breathtaking setting for an unforgettable dining experience.

Branding Iron

76.3 km

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Powder Cache Bar & Grill

76.3 km

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The Trap Bar And Grill

76.3 km

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The Royal Wullf Tavern

80.1 km

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Dave's Pubb

81.8 km

Dave's Pubb in Tetonia, Idaho: A lively bar experience featuring local craft beers, delicious bites, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

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Discover the Wonders of Painted Pool

A brief summary to Painted Pool

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Walking/Hiking

Unlock the Best of Painted Pool

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Painted Pool

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Continental Divide - Elevation 8,262 Ft.

Yellowstone Caldera

Old Faithful Lodge

Old Faithful Viewing Area

Great Fountain Geyser

Fishing Bridge Visitor Center

Fishing Bridge

Black Sand Basin

Fountain Paint Pot Trail

Biscuit Basin

Yellowstone Lower Geyser Basin

West Geyser

Clepsydra Geyser

Excelsior Geyser Crater

Grand Prismatic Spring

Unmissable attractions to see

Twin Geyser

Blue Funnel Spring

Mimulus Pool

Thumb Geyser

Perforated Pool

Collapsing Pool, Yellowstone

Percolating Spring

West Thumb Information Station

Hillside Geyser

Abyss Pool

Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail

King Geyser

Lakeshore Geyser

Yellowstone National Park

South Rim Trailhead

Essential places to dine

Grant Village Dining Room

Grant Village Lake House Restaurant

Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room

Old Faithful General Store Grill

Old Faithful Snow Lodge Geyser Grill

Wylie’s Canteen at Lake Lodge

Old Faithful Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room

Old Faithful Inn Dining Room

Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli

Canyon Fountain and Grill

Canyon Eatery

Park One Restaurant 黄石酒楼

McDonald's

Wild West Pizzeria & Saloon

The Falafel Spot

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Yellowstone Forever Park Store

Grant Mini Store

Old Faithful General Store

Yellowstone Forever Park Store - Old Faithful

Fishing Bridge - General Store

Canyon Village - General Store

Best of yellowstone

Eagle's Store

Yellowstone Park Village

Yellowstone Trading Post

New Pioneer

Buffalo Spirit Trading Post LLC

Yellowstone T Shirt Co

Firehole Trading Co

Yellowstone Outlet

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Yellowstone Beer Company

Grizzly Lounge

Leek's Marina & Pizzeria