Fly Geyser
Gerlach, Nevada, United States
Fly Geyser is an accidental geothermal wonder born from a mishap in 1964, when an improperly capped well in Nevada's Black Rock Desert allowed pressurized geothermal…
What it's like here
Fly Geyser is an accidental geothermal wonder born from a mishap in 1964, when an improperly capped well in Nevada's Black Rock Desert allowed pressurized geothermal water to surface and begin depositing minerals. What emerged over decades is a surreal, multi-colored travertine cone that looks more extraterrestrial than earthly: vivid neon greens and reds coat its surface, the result of thermophilic algae that thrive in the hot, mineral-rich water. Steam vents continuously release plumes into the arid desert air, creating a stark contrast against the barren brown landscape.
Visiting requires advance planning. The geyser sits on private land, so access is only through authorized guided tours, typically organized seasonally. Booking online in advance is essential. Spring and autumn are considered the best seasons to visit. A typical visit lasts 1–2 hours and works well for solo travellers, couples, or friends looking for something genuinely unusual.
The experience is primarily photographic and scenic—the alien-like appearance makes it highly Instagram-worthy, and photography is permitted. What strikes most visitors is the sheer strangeness of the place: a vivid, otherworldly formation in the middle of an empty, expansive desert. It is not a traditional natural wonder, but rather a reminder of how geology and unintended human intervention can create something genuinely one-of-a-kind.
Parking is available at the tour location. Because access is restricted and seasonal, this is not a casual drop-by destination. But for travellers interested in unusual geological phenomena and willing to book ahead, Fly Geyser delivers an experience unlike anywhere else in the region.
Highlights
- Accidentally formed in 1964 from an improperly capped geothermal well
- Vibrant neon green and red thermophilic algae coating the travertine cone
- Constant steam vents creating an alien landscape in the desert
- Access by authorized guided tours only; advance online booking required
- Best visited in spring or autumn; typical visit lasts 1–2 hours
Good to know
The geyser is on private property and accessible only via authorized guided tours, which operate seasonally. Advance online booking is required. Parking is available. The best time to visit is spring or autumn.
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Questions people ask
How was Fly Geyser formed?
It was accidentally created in 1964 when an improperly capped well allowed pressurized geothermal water to surface and deposit minerals, building up the travertine cone over time.
Can I visit without a guided tour?
No. The geyser is on private property, and access is only permitted through authorized guided tours.
Why are the colors so vivid?
The neon greens and reds are caused by thermophilic algae that thrive in the hot, mineral-rich water surrounding the geyser.
Attributes & facilities
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Last verified: August 23, 2026