Artist Paintpots

Artist Paint Pots is a good little hike that most anyone can do. It is rarely as crowded as the bigger basins in the park which puts it up several notches in my book. It is located between Madison Junction, and Norris. I have always been fascinated with mud pots and these are no different. The trail starts out going through young conifer trees. Be careful of wildlife as there was a young Bison in the parking lot guarding the outhouse. Do not ever approach these animals. They hurt more people by far than any other in the park, so make sure you keep your selfie stick at a distance from these beautiful animals.The trail opens up with views of the surrounding forested hills. This area was extensively hurt by wildfire which is why all the trees are so young.You will soon smell and see your first thermal features.You will climb an easy hill on a boardwalk to see the mud pots. Artist Paint pots themselves are very pretty and have been a little different every time I have gone.The views from the higher part of the trail are very pretty.The last part of the loop section has a couple more interesting pools and features.