Yellowstone National Park sits atop the Yellowstone Caldera, one of the world’s largest active volcanic systems. This caldera was formed by three massive eruptions over the past 2.1 million years, with the most recent occurring approximately 640,000 years ago.
Recent geological activity in the park includes the discovery of a new thermal steam vent in August 2024. Located near Roadside Springs, this vent emits steam that is especially visible on chilly mornings. Such features frequently form and change in Yellowstone, highlighting the park’s dynamic landscape.
Despite these active geothermal features, there is no indication of an imminent volcanic eruption. The Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, a consortium of nine state and federal agencies, continuously monitors the region’s volcanic, hydrothermal, and earthquake activity to provide timely hazard assessments.
A study published in January 2025 suggests that future eruptions, if they occur, are more likely to happen in the northeastern part of Yellowstone National Park. However, experts emphasize that such events are not expected in the foreseeable future.
Overall, while Yellowstone’s volcanic system remains active, current geological evidence does not suggest any immediate volcanic threats.