[IMAGE: Fly Geyser, by Photograph by Jeremy C. Munns]
Fly Geyser
Photograph by Jeremy C. Munns, 20th century
Fly Geyser looks like it belongs on another planet. It's actually in a desert in Nevada, and it was made partly by accident.
In the 20th century, people drilled wells on the land, looking for water. Geothermally heated water broke through, and in one well it was never properly sealed. Hot, mineral-rich water has been bursting out ever since.
As the water spills out, it leaves minerals behind, building up mounds that have been growing for decades. The red, orange and green colours come from heat-loving algae and bacteria living on the wet surfaces.
The geyser is on private land, owned by the Burning Man Project since 2016, and can only be visited on organised tours.
Look for
- The multicoloured mounds, like melting candles
- Jets of hot water spraying constantly
- Terraces of pools around the base