Trailhead: 4.4 miles south of Norris on the Norris-Madison road
Distance: about 1 mile roundtrip
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Note: a new trail was cut in 2004, making this trail an even easier hike
This is one of the overlooked yet wonderful very short hikes of Yellowstone. The trail, beginning as a boardwalk, meanders through a partially burned lodgepole pine forest, climbing slightly in elevation once reaching the thermal area. The thermal area within the short loop at the end of the trail features colorful hot springs and several small geysers. Two mudpots at the top of the hill allow closer access than Fountain Paint Pots. The mudpots continuously spurt mud into the air and are a favorite of park visitors.
360 degree view of Artist Paint Pots