The Fly Geyser, situated roughly 32 km north of Gerlach in Washoe County, Nevada, is a hidden treasure for tourists looking to explore lesser-known destinations. It stands adjacent to the natural Fly Reservoir lake and towers over 3.5 meters tall. Interestingly, this geyser isn’t a purely natural occurrence – there are two geysers located on the land. The first one came into existence in 1916 when a farmer privately owned the land and drilled a well, hoping to convert the desert into fertile grassland. However, he accidentally struck a geothermal pocket of water, leading to the birth of the first geyser.
In 1964, while conducting a geothermal energy test, a company stumbled upon a hot geyser that reached a temperature of approximately 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This discovery led to the spewing of hot water onto the surface of the well and eventually caused the geyser to erupt at a height of 1.5m due to the intense heat generated by the geothermal activity.
The enchanting hue of the fountain is a result of the combination of minerals, hot gases, and thermophilic algae that thrive in warm and damp environments. Its appearance can easily be mistaken for a sci-fi movie set on Mars. The Fly Geyser has gradually grown over time due to the continuous influx of minerals and hot gas. Interestingly, the geyser has also established its own ecosystem beneath it, where various species of birds and fish reside.
As water is discharged from the faucet, minerals are released, forming a unique and exceptional mound. The height of the mound measures around 10-12 feet or roughly 2 meters, exhibiting an array of striking green and red hues. What sets this geyser apart is the presence of quartz within the mound, which grows at a rapid pace compared to other geysers. Typically, it takes about 10,000 years for quartz to develop in geysers, making the Fly Geyser a truly enchanting sight to behold.
Nestled in a fenced-off area on the Fly Ranch grasslands lies the Fly Geyser. The only access to this unique underground mound is via a small dirt road. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, Fly Geyser has become an inspiration for photographers worldwide. A visit to this surreal location feels like stepping into a Martian landscape. It’s no surprise that it draws countless tourists annually who come to appreciate and explore this wonder of nature.
