That’s Strange- VI: Nevada’s Hot Secret

Who do you think is the luckiest man on earth? One who has wealth, wisdom or maybe one who has lady luck on his side?

Picture this: You buy a part of the John Casey (yep, the famous novelist) estate, call it the Fly Ranch only to discover a gorgeous geyser now called the Fly Geyser on the property that has grown even more marvellous with time. That is the TRUE story of the lucky Todd Jaksick for you.

Now, before you imagine a hi-tech version of the bathroom geyser, Pause! Look at the picture below of the beautiful geyser being talked about here.

 

The Backdrop

Accidentally created from a geothermal test during the drilling of a well in 1916, no one knew what this stand-alone structure would become until the 1960s when hot underground water (200 degrees) found a weak spot and began pouring to the surface at a height of 3.7 metres. Voila! The Fly Geyser was born!

What a Sight

So, while I was in Nevada, what was more surprising was the fact that not many people were aware of this phenomenal sight. I assumed maybe because it is located on a private property and Todd Jaksick has been low on advertising it. I actually had to Google my way to figure out how to get there. Located on the edge of the Black Rock Desert, Fly Geyser is approximately 20 miles north of Gerlach in Washoe County, Nevada.

To start with, the road that leads to Fly Geyser is barred by a huge gate with spikes on the top that block the access road. As I reached, I saw some tourists who literally jumped over the fence to get inside the private ranch, ignoring the fact that trespassing is illegal.

Clueless of what to do, I saw a tall structure spewing water from far and it did look interesting. I wondered how amazing it would be up close. Swayed by temptation, I went back, met the caretaker of this property at the Bruno’s Country Club Restaurant in Gerlach, requested him to allow me in and finally succeeded…at a nominal price.

Lo and Behold!

I proudly entered the private arena. Undoubtedly, it looked wow! Currently at a height of 12 feet, this active geyser is believed to be constantly growing with time. It sprays boiling water, about 5 feet in the air. Adding more to the wow factor is the palette of colours ranging from the multiple hues of green and red, owing to the cover of thermophilic algae (which is known to flourish more in moist and hot environment) around the volcano-like geyser. While I clicked many pictures, I also found two smaller geysers on the same property.

I must say, the sight was truly worth the effort I made. Back home, I pondered as to why it was not open for public. For, Mr. Jaksick believes that to retain its beauty, he wishes to keep it a hot secret while I think it’s time to share the secret!