The Echinus Geyser in Yellowstone National Park is back in action after being quiet for over five years. This geyser, located in the Norris Geyser Basin, has a fascinating size at 66 feet wide. Its name comes from unique rock formations around it that look like sea urchins, noted by mineralogist Albert Charles Peale during his visit in 1878.
What’s interesting about Echinus is its acidic nature, created by a mix of acidic gases and neutral waters. Unlike some acidic geysers that can erode their surroundings, Echinus has a gentler acidity, likened to orange juice or vinegar. This unique chemistry leads to striking formations and colors, especially the reddish hue of the geyser pool.
Echinus did not always have such long stretches of silence. In the late 20th century, it was quite active, erupting every 40 to 80 minutes. In the 1980s and 1990s, these eruptions could shoot water as high as 75 feet, sometimes even soaking unsuspecting visitors!
However, things changed around the early 2000s. Echinus’s eruptions became rare, with only 15 recorded between October 2010 and January 2011. It showed some signs of activity again in 2017 but remained mostly dormant until recently. In February 2026, the geyser began erupting again. Starting on February 7, Echinus displayed impressive 20-30 foot eruptions every few hours.
As of now, the geyser has shown spikes in activity but hasn’t erupted consistently. According to park officials, while it might not continue this summer, they can’t predict what Echinus will do next.
This geyser isn’t just a natural wonder; it’s a reminder of how geysers can be unpredictable. They serve as both scientific interest and a spectacle for visitors. As we learn more about such geological phenomena, it’s essential to appreciate the balance between nature’s unpredictability and the beauty it brings. For ongoing updates about Echinus and other geysers, you can check the U.S. Geological Survey here.
Overall, the Echinus Geyser’s return to activity is a thrilling event for park visitors and a testament to the dynamic nature of the Earth.
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