Exploring Yellowstone and the Tetons

This week we headed west into Yellowstone National Park and revisited some favorite spots. Old Faithful was true to it's name, however, the ol' gal seems to be losing some of her umphff! She blows on schedule, give or take a few minutes, but the power of the shower seems definitely lacking since we were here 4 years ago. We weren't really disappointed, though - it is still a terrific sight! (Wouldn't it be weird, though, to witness the last burst?!?)

The Geyser Basin has an eeriness about it, especially when you see it on a cool, cloudy day. The steam can totally engulf you as you walk past a bubbling pot. There is an otherworldly feel to the area, and a pungent sulphur smell. There is no wildlife to be seen and the dead tree trunks lying near the craters look like dried bones. The whole area seems out of place in the middle of this lush national park!

Just about 15 miles away from the Geyser Basin, we encountered one of the many buffalo herds we saw on our visit. Funny, these animals always seem to be eating! You can get right up next to them to take their picture and they don't even notice you. They seem so lethargic. We did come across one frisky young fella that really kicked up it's heels and scampered about, though. We were amazed at his speed. The rest of the herd just kept on munching and were oblivious...




















We drove down to Grand Teton National Park to see the towering vistas and were almost skunked by the cloud cover. Just at the moment we were leaving the park, we saw the clouds clear enough for the peaks to peek out!



It is still early in the season up here, and there are frequent weather changes. As we head out on our almost-daily 'explores,' spring rains can quickly evaporate and cool temperatures mellow as the sun burns off the clouds. We must be equipped at all times with sunglasses and raincoats! Thank goodness for variety!

Until next time, enjoy yourselves - life is a gift!