(click map to open very large locator map - this section is dark purple)
0.0
Old Faithful Interchange
From the Old Faithful Interchange, the Grand Loop Road heads to the east on the West Thumb to Old Faithful section and north to Madison Junction, as described below.
0.4
Black Sand Basin
The parking area for Black Sand Basin is on the left. This is a nice thermal area with many outstanding features, including the Emerald Pool, shown to the right.
2.0
Biscuit Basin
The parking area for Biscuit Basin is on the left. This is another small thermal area, named for formations that existed here until they were destroyed by an earthquake. Several thermal features can be seen, including the Wall Pool, shown to the right.
4.4
Fairy Falls Trailhead
A good sized parking area on the left is for the Fairy Falls Trail. This trail leads less than two miles to Fairy Falls. Along the way is a good view of the Grand Prismatic Spring in the Midway Geyser Basin.
5.9
Midway Geyser Basin
The road passes by the large parking area for the Midway Geyser Basin. Some of the largest features in the park are here, including the largest pool, the Grand Prismatic Spring, pictured to the right.
6.3
Whiskey Flats Picnic Area
The road goes by the Whiskey Flats Picnic Area.
6.8
Firehole Lake Drive entrance
The entrance to the one-way Firehole Lake Drive is on the left. This road goes by several interesting thermal features, including Firehole Spring, shown to the right.
7.8
Fountain Paint Pots
The Fountain Paint Pots Thermal Area is on the left. In addition to the paint pots themselves are a number of pools and geysers. Almost across the road is the exit of the one-way Firehole Lake Drive.
9.5
Mary Mountain Trailhead
The road passes the parking area for the Mary Mountain Trailhead. This is an access to several long hikes.
10.4
Fountain Flat Drive
The Fountain Flat Drive is on the left.
11.5
Firehole River Picnic Area
The road goes by the Firehole River Picnic Area.
13.7
Firehole Canyon Drive exit
The one-way Firehole Canyon Drive rejoins from the left.
15.6
Firehole Canyon Drive entrance
The Firehole Canyon Drive leaves the road to the left. Several scenic spots are along this drive, including Firehole Falls, pictured to the right. There is also a swimming area on the Firehole River.
16.1
Madison Junction
The road arrives at Madison Junction. A right turn enters the Madison to Norris section. A left turn joins the West Entrance Road which leads to the town of West Yellowstone, Montana.
