Located in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada, this strange site was created accidentially in 1964 by a geothermal expedition to see if power could be harnessed in the region. Though the water was not found to be suitable, it is still over 200 degrees Fahrenhite, and steam can be seen miles away. This formation was a result of the test well being left improperly uncapped, allowing for the mineral rich waters to escape.
Since then, dissolved minerals started rising and accumulating, creating the travertine mound on which the geyser sits and continues growing.[1]Water is constantly released, reaching approximately 5 feet in the air. The geyser contains several terraces discharging water into 30 to 40 pools over an area of 30 hectares (74 acres). The geyser is made up of a series of different minerals, but its brilliant colors are due to thermophilic algae.
While there are no current tours available in the area, feel free to contact the Friends of Black Rock Desert for further information. There is rumor a gentleman by the name of David Jamieson may be able to show you the place, but do not hold me to it.
In order to claim this cache, you will need to visit near the site, but DO NOT TRESPASS. Please park at the coordinates listed, as you will be able to see the area from the road. Some people may need binoculars for those without good sight.
The Fly Geyser can be viewed up close with pre-approval from the site owners. Please click on the related webpage link at the top of the page for more information.
To get credit for the find, please answer the following questions:
1. What colors are currently present?
2. How high are the steam vents shooting?
3. About how large is the total formation?
4. Estimate how many gallons per minute of water is leaving the formation.
5. Optional: Please post a picture of the formation so a timeline can be shown for future cachers.
Answers with "I dont know; Cant find it; etc..," or failing to answer the first four questions will cause your log to be deleted.
Each person who logs a find must submit their own answers, no group emails.
Please be mindful to remain on all paved and hard surfaces.
Do not go off-roading or damage the natural habitat in any way.
This is a learning opportunity, that many will want to join in on, so CITO and leave no trace when visiting. Please do not leave the parking area & DO NOT TRESPASS!
I do not reply to correct answers. So please log your find once you have completed the cache and submitted your answers. If there are any concerns, I will contact you.
[1] Richard Moreno (4 November 2008). Nevada Curiosities: Quirky Characters, Roadside Oddities & Other Offbeat Stuff. Globe Pequot Press. pp. 104–. ISBN 978-0-7627-4682-8. Retrieved 15 July 2013.
