Steamboat is the world's tallest geyser. Even though it has periods of dormancy, some lasting decades, it is a spectacular geyser when it does erupt. Eruptions are difficult to predict. Before an eruption, splashing begins within the cone, building into an eruption which may spout up to 380 feet. However if there is activity it is usually only splashing or minor displays which can reach only up to 10-60 feet high. Because of the large amount of water needed for an eruption, there may be subterranean connections which tap into other thermal springs.