description Sapphire Pool Overview
The Sapphire Pool is a striking geothermal hot spring located within Yellowstone National Park’s Biscuit Basin in Wyoming. Its intense blue color arises from dissolved minerals and silica, intensified by sunlight. The pool gained notoriety following the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake when it briefly erupted as a geyser. It's a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience this unique natural phenomenon and is particularly appealing to those interested in Yellowstone’s geological features and hot spring activity.
insights Why this score
Sapphire Pool ranks #24 of 203 in the Hot Spring ranking, behind Hvammsvik Hot Springs, ahead of Hakone Onsen.
help Sapphire Pool FAQ
Why is Sapphire Pool in Yellowstone so intensely blue?
Its blue appearance comes from sunlight interacting with exceptionally clear water, with fine mineral particles helping scatter blue wavelengths. Sapphire Pool is a hot spring in Biscuit Basin, part of Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin area.
Did the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake change Sapphire Pool?
Yes, the earthquake altered hydrothermal activity around Biscuit Basin, and Sapphire Pool began erupting as a geyser afterward. Its behavior later subsided, and it is now usually observed as a brilliant hot pool rather than a regularly erupting geyser.
Can visitors swim in Sapphire Pool?
No, visitors must remain on designated boardwalks and trails because Yellowstone's hydrothermal water and surrounding crust can cause fatal burns. Biscuit Basin is managed by the National Park Service, which prohibits entering these thermal features.
Is Sapphire Pool the same place as Yellowstone's Morning Glory Pool?
No, they are separate thermal features. Sapphire Pool lies in Biscuit Basin, while Morning Glory Pool is reached along the Upper Geyser Basin trail beyond Old Faithful.
explore Explore More
Similar to Sapphire Pool
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
