Yellowstone National Park
We spent 7 jam packed days in YNP in July 2009. Our route and pace will not be the best fit for everyone, but we hope that our picture filled timeline can help you plan an adventure of your own!
Day One
North Entrance - Roosevelt Arch - Mammoth Hot Springs
Day Two
Beartooth Highway - Lamar Valley - Blacktail Plateau
It was in the Lamar Valley that we experienced something very rare at the time (2009). We came across a pack of wolves feeding on a buffalo. They were too far away to get pictures of, but we watched them through a scope for the better part of two days. On the second day as we were returning to camp a lone wolf crossed the road in front of us. She looked extremely thin and we later found out that she was a new momma headed back to her den..... We learned this from the ranger who pulled us over for stopping in the road to take pictures - oops!
While exploring this area we camped at Pebble Creek Campground.
Day Three
Tower Falls - Canyon Village
The best wildlife experience of day 3 - This bear that kept looking up the tree, then walking away, then walking back..... We knew she must be trying to get babies to come down - they were adorable!
While exploring this area we camped at Tower Falls Campground.
Day Four
Specimen Ridge Trail - Yellowstone River Overlook Trail - Hellroaring Trail
Day 4 Wildlife Moment...... a Fox joined us on the Yellowstone River Overlook Trail
Day 4 Wildlife - we saw the cubs again..... & seriously thought this guy might get eaten for getting too close!
Night 4 we drove out the West Entrance and stayed at Lonesomehurst Campground.
Day Five
Pools, Springs and Geysers! Norris to Biscuit Basin
While exploring this area we camped at Bridge Bay Campground.
Day 6
More Pools, Springs and Geysers! Midway Geyser Basin to West Thumb
On Day 5, we said you need to climb the hill you see behind Grand Prismatic Spring.... this is why!
The view from down below is colorful, but nothing compared to seeing it from above. When we visited there was no official trail or viewpoint, we just walked a gravel road and kept looking for a place to scurry up - and we found one! I hear they have built an official overlook now, our way was a little more peaceful and private I am guessing!
While exploring this area we camped at Bridge Bay Campground.
Day Seven
Natural Bridge - Mud Geyser - Hayden Valley
Day 7 Wildlife - this big guy provided entertainment by walking the boardwalk and rolling in the dirt!
While exploring this area we camped at Bridge Bay Campground. At the end of Day 7 we headed to Cody, WY to stock up on groceries, fuel, and water before moving on to Grand Teton National Park for week 2.
