Description
In addition to these golden-brown tones, the microbial mats surrounding the Grand Prismatic Spring also appear in bright greens, reds and yellows during broad daylight. Should you get a chance to visit this Yellowstone hotspot at sunset, after the buzzing daily crowds thin, the terrace-like layers of microscopic life are still a compelling sight. These tiny yet hardy creatures thrive in a spring that in some spots hits 87 degrees Celsius – 13 degrees shy of boiling, but still hot enough to pose extreme danger. So as the sun dips past the ridgeline and the sky dims, watch your step and don't slip.