Like clockwork, Old Faithful erupts every 90 minutes or so. This was the first of several eruptions we were to observe. In the Old Faithful Inn the time for the next eruption is posted and all activity surrounds the eruptions. Everyone goes out to see the eruption and then back in after the eruption is over.
This is Castle Geyser that is pretty old based on the 12-foot cone. The cone height means 5000 years of continuous activity. During our stay it spouted a bit but did not erupt - it is very irregular in eruptions - but was just sending small bursts or water and steam into the air.
Photo by Virginia Ann
Virginia Ann went ahead and explored the path back to the hotel.
We were watching each other from across the Firehole River to see who might get a better shot.
The rustic-style lodge, with log and wood shingle exterior is located adjacent to the world famous Old Faithful Geyser. The original part of the Inn, known as the "Old House" was completed in 1904 and includes an immense lobby with a huge stone fireplace.
On our last day we would be invited to take the flags down way at the top of the hotel.
Old Faithful Geyser steaming
Old Faithful Inn
The only downside to the Old Faithful Inn was dining. There is very limited seating and unless you made reservations when you booked your room you will not get into the dining room at a reasonable time. There are no other options, so we ate at 9:30 - 10:00 each night. And the food is not worth the wait.
This picture was taken while we drank a Teton Ale on the Old Faithful Inn patio which has a spectacular view of the geyser area. A wonderful place to unwind after a long day hiking the Upper Geyser basin.