The Story Behind the Click: A Splash From Grotto Geyser
Grotto Geyser has such a fascinating shape, and because the boardwalks and trails allow access to various sides of it, it becomes an attractive thermal feature for photographers. The shape was likely formed when it began many millennia ago. Some evidence points to the thermal features in the Upper Geyser Basin having existed for at least 10,000 years. In Grotto’s case, a spring may have formed at the base of some trees that became encased in the silica rich water, creating the unique shape of Grotto.
This area is also interesting to geyser enthusiasts who have noted connections between Grotto Geyser and thermal features farther away, including Giant Geyser and “Marathon Pool” closer to Riverside Geyser. When they record the start of a Grotto eruption, they count it when the first large splash is seen coming from a hole in the formation on the “back” side.
This is where this photo was taken. It was actually a completely sunny day, but the steam from the eruption blocked the sun, giving a moody appearance. While this is not one of my digital photo watercolors, it was processed to have more of an art feel to the image.
Learn more about Grotto Geyser in my Get to Know the Geysers series of articles on Yellowstone Naturalist.
Read more about Janet’s photography.
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Article by Janet Jones
Owner of Cody Journal and SnowMoon Photography
Janet has a rich history in Cody with her grandparents moving here in the late 1930s. Her grandfather started Wyoming Well Service. Janet is a writer, photographer, graphic designer and webmaster. Cody Journal and Cody Calendar blends her skills and talents with her love of the area.