In addition to Echinus, there is plenty along this walk for those fond of the striking colors often found in thermal basins (the result of both minerals and micro-organisms). For starters, visit Cistern Spring, located along the middle section of the figure-8-shaped walkway, and then Emerald Spring, just south of the museum. It is interesting to note that the northwest corner of this walkway system follows almost exactly the old Grand Loop Road. In fact, a stagecoach loading dock was located near Minute Geyser, a feature that once sported impressive eruptions.

Follow the signs located on the south side of the Norris Geyser Basin Museum, just past the Yellowstone Association bookstore.

The Back Basin Trail will introduce you to such treasures as Echinus Geyser, which, at least for the time being, is erupting on a regular schedule of thirty-five to seventy-five minutes.