Yellowstone National Park is an ever-changing landscape, and 2024 was defined by a spectacular explosion that became one of the biggest changes observed by scientists and visitors in several decades.

Mike Poland, scientist in charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, said that “2024 was the year of the hydrothermal explosion. The explosion at Biscuit Basin was certainly the most visible and hazardous event of the year, and it brought a lot of awareness of that hazard in Yellowstone.”

The July 23 hydrothermal explosion of Black Diamond Pool might have been the most sensational happening in Yellowstone last year, but a lot of other things did and didn’t happen in 2024. As scientists reflect on a calendar year of changes, it is a reminder of what makes the park such an interesting and enjoyable place to explore and study.

“The typical ever-changing activity is just Yellowstone being Yellowstone,” Poland said, adding that, “2024 was a typical year in that regard.”