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Norris Geyser Basin, considered by many scientists to be the hottest and most changeable of Yellowstone’s thermal areas, sits at the intersection of three major faults. There is evidence that hydrothermal features have existed at Norris for at least 115,000 years. The features in the basin may change daily, with frequent disturbances from seismic activity and water fluctuations. Norris is home to Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world.

Norris Geyser Basin consists of three main areas: Porcelain Basin, Back Basin, and One Hundred Spring Plain. The majority of the area’s geysers and hot springs have temperatures exceeding the boiling point and many are acidic, with pH values of 2-4.

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