Day 4 - Jackson, WY to West Yellowstone, MT

Left Jackson at 7:41 (after picking up coffee at Tully’s) and headed North on Highway 89 toward the South entrance into Yellowstone National Park. Great views of the Tetons and Snake River most of the way. About a half hour out a herd of bison decided to crash some fences and cross the highway. Needless to say they had the right-of-way.

First stop in the park was to get a few photos of the Lewis River and in the process invite a clan of mosquitoes into the car. Barb managed to climb into the back seat and get most of them. Next we took a short break at Grant Village and then headed out to Old Faithful.

We arrived just after whatever it is that geysers do (erupt?), so spent an hour and a half following the paths around West Thumb Geyser Basin. Very interesting. Bubbling ponds of water, small geysers and the sweet smell of sulfur in the air. Old Faithful is indeed faithful, taking almost exactly 90 minutes to recharge for another show. It took about 5 minutes of warming up and then POW.

Forgot where our car was in the sea of cars. However, after a short search we managed to retrieve it and then set out for West Yellowstone. What a beautiful drive, especially along the rivers I read about in fly fishing books and magazines. The Firehole. The Madison. People out standing in the rivers waving sticks. Why did I not bring a fly rod?

Dinner tonight will be snacks. Just the regular stuff, smoked salmon, cream cheese, etc. Barb with her wine, me with my rum. We will be spending three nights in West Yellowstone, so there will be plenty of time to explore more in park. 139 miles today.

Old Faithful
Yellowstone Park