Cycling the Old Faithful to Morning Glory Pool Path: A Journey Through Yellowstone's Wonders

Cycling the Old Faithful to Morning Glory Pool Path in Yellowstone National Park

In Yellowstone, the land tells its story in steam, water, and fire. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in that story than by cycling the path from Old Faithful to Morning Glory Pool. This 2.5-mile ride offers a front-row seat to some of the park’s most dazzling geothermal wonders, all while gliding through an iconic landscape that feels alive beneath your wheels.

Your journey begins at the Old Faithful Visitor Center, where Yellowstone’s most famous geyser provides an unforgettable sendoff. As you pedal away, the trail hugs the Firehole River, the sound of its gentle current blending with the soft hum of your tires. The air is crisp, punctuated by the occasional warmth of steam rising from nearby vents.

The ride is a sensory feast. At Biscuit Basin, hot springs shimmer in shades of turquoise and emerald, their vivid colors created by heat-loving bacteria. Sapphire Pool glows like a jewel under the sky, its stillness belying the heat below. Black Sand Basin offers a more dramatic scene, where plumes of steam curl into the air, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

The gentle incline of the trail leads you to Morning Glory Pool, a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. Its radiant yellows, greens, and blues seem almost otherworldly, a stunning reminder of Yellowstone’s volcanic heartbeat. Standing here, it’s impossible not to feel connected to the primal forces that shaped this land.

The return ride is just as enchanting. As the light changes, so does the landscape, revealing new dimensions to the geysers, pools, and river. In just 5 miles round trip, this trail delivers an experience that’s equal parts adventure and meditation—a chance to pedal through Yellowstone’s vibrant, untamed spirit.

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Adventure Guide Summary

Old Faithful to Morning Glory Pool Path

• Trailhead: Old Faithful Visitor Center.
• Distance: 5 miles round trip.
• Difficulty: Easy; paved and mostly flat.
• Features: Old Faithful, Biscuit Basin, Black Sand Basin, and Morning Glory Pool.
• Tips:
  • Rent or bring a bike; helmets recommended.
  • Allow time for stops and exploration.
  • Pack water and snacks for the ride.
• Wildlife Alert: Stay vigilant for bison and other wildlife along the trail.