Though it may seem like part of a sci-fi movie set, in fact, this rainbow-colored wonder is natural. This scenic spot is Nevada's hidden gem which can be visited year-round, however, avoid summer due to high temperatures in the desert. Also, it gets really crowded during the Burning Man festival in late August and early September.
Fly Geyser is a small geothermal geyser in the Hualapai Geothermal Flats. It owes its activity to calcium carbonate deposits and bright colors to thermophile algae. The first geyser appeared here in 1916 when the locals were drilling for a well. Later on, a calcium carbonate cone appeared over the well.
The Fly Geyser is part of the Fly Ranch near the town of Gerlach in Washoe County. The ranch and its land were purchased by the Burning Man Project in 2016. It is located 107 mi (172 km) from Reno, Nevada. Since 2016, the unique geothermal site became available for visits. Fly Ranch Nature Walk tours last for three hours, beginning at the Friends of Black Rock-High Rock’s Visitor Center Store.
Fly Ranch occupies 3,800 ac (1,537 ha) and offers an exciting nature-watching experience in the Black Rock Desert. There are also a few ideas about making this place a year-round extension of the Burning Man Festival. The area attracts many photographers and hot springs enthusiasts.
Practical info
When should you visit Fly Geyser if you want to explore it comfortably?
To explore Fly Geyser comfortably, it is advisable to visit it between September and May when the weather is mild. During this time, it is easier to explore the scenic landscapes around the geyser. Avoid visiting the geyser in the summertime since the desert experiences high temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making it unbearable to explore. Show more
What is the location of Fly Geyser and what is the distance between it and Reno?
Fly Geyser is situated in Washoe County, Nevada, on Fly Ranch in the Hualapai Geothermal Flats. The ranch is about 107 miles (172 kilometers) northeast of Reno. Fly Ranch is now open to the public since 2016, and visitors can take a 3-hour tour of the place, including the geothermal area where Fly Geyser is situated. Show more
What gives Fly Geyser its colorful appearance?
Fly Geyser derives its colorful appearance from thermophile algae. These algae grow on the geyser due to the high temperatures of the geothermal area, coupled with the mineral-rich hot water that flows from the geyser. The colors of the algae give Fly Geyser a rainbow hue, which makes the geyser unique and draws photographers and hot spring enthusiasts from all over the world. Show more
What activities can you engage in when you visit Fly Ranch, and what is the size of the ranch?
Fly Ranch occupies an area of 3,800 acres (1,537 hectares) and offers visitors diverse activities. Among these activities are hiking, bird watching, and photography. There are also Nature Walk tours that visitors can take to explore Fly Ranch's geothermal area, including Fly Geyser. Additionally, camping and stargazing options are available. Some ideas have suggested making Fly Ranch a year-round extension of the Burning Man Festival. Show more
Is Fly Geyser part of the Burning Man Festival, and how can you visit it?
Fly Geyser is not a part of Burning Man Festival. The geyser is located near the festival's site in late August and early September. Visitors can book a tour of Fly Ranch to explore the geothermal area, the Nature Walk tour, which is open on a few selected dates and has limited availability. To avoid missing a chance to visit Fly Geyser, it is advisable to book early due to the high demand for the tour. Show more
