Massive snowbanks loomed on either side of the entrance to Yellowstone National Park as we passed through the south gate near Moran, Wyoming. Pressing onward towards the West Thumb, we eventually made our way to Old Faithful. Snow gradually receded as we approached the fabled attraction. While the air temperature remained constant, beneath our feet, the geologically active basin created warmth of its own. Touring the south loop of the park, iconic attractions such as Kepler Cascades, Grand Prismatic Spring and the Upper and Lower Falls offered moments of silence and beauty. Of all the wildlife encountered, we were relieved to come across very few of what is considered to be the most dangerous omnivore in the park – humans in RV’s. It won’t be long until they arrive though, so be sure to take advantage of the season. Overall, the excursion north to the crown jewel of the national parks was a reminder of how fortunate we are to live in Jackson Hole and have such an incredible backyard.

JJ 5/16/11

A crowd gathers on a sunny afternoon to watch the eruption of Old Faithful Geyser

The colors of the thermal features of the geyser basin are on display at Grand Prismatic Springs

An osprey eyes the Firehole river for a meal

Pelicans come to Yellowstone Lake to breed in the warmer months

The Lower Falls on the Yellowstone gushes water into the mouth of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone