The more popular geysers often overshadow the mud pots. Although the mud pots may not be as picturesque as the hot springs and pools, these turbulent pools of hot, muddy water, and bizarre landscapes are another feature that makes Yellowstone National Park so unique. As you experience the mud pots and volcanoes, be aware that you are close to one of the major vents from which lava flowed through the caldera's collapse. These areas are active and known as resurging domes. They are being monitored closely for information about future volcanic activity. As you experience the mud pots, you are certain to smell a distinct odor. The presence of sulfur in mud pots separates them from Hot Springs. In the form of hydrogen sulfide gas, sulfur is what creates the infamous odor.

Where hot water is limited and hydrogen sulfide gas is present (emitting the "rotten egg" smell common to thermal areas), sulfuric acid is generated. The acid dissolves the surrounding rock into fine particles of silica and clay that mix with what little water there is to form the seething and bubbling mud pots. The sights, sounds, and smells of areas like Artist and Fountain paint pots and Mud Volcano make these curious features some of the most memorable in the park.

Below: Leaving the mud pots, the two RV Gypsies came to an area in the road that was so different from the rest of the road area in Yellowstone. In just this short area, big boulders lined the side of the curvy road and it was quite a beautiful site to behold. Karen Duquette had to take the photos through the closed front window of the moving car.

Below: Another waterfall

Please continue on to page 4 of 4 - Calcite Springs Overlook in Yellowstone National Park