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Published: September 28th 2015
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Today we decided to give finding Bullwinkle another shot. We got up extra early and went back into Yellowstone and began our search for more wildlife. It did not take long to locate the elk. We saw a group of photographers perfecting their skills with their extra long lenses at one of the elk sites. Another elk herd we came upon had 2 bulls which we expected to see some friction between the two, but they both remained calm. One kept to himself and the other with his herd of does, so no dominance illustration was warranted.
We continued on searching and found many bison along the way and even encountered a couple of bison jams. We made our way to Hayden Valley where we ran into the WSC (Wolf Stalkers Club) again. We joined them for a bit and was actually able to see a wolf on top of the hill - well we saw a moving dot that we were told was a gray wolf. So I took a photo of the moving dot and we continued on around the park. I might just have to invest in one of those super duper lenses they all
have.
We continued along the road next to the lake enjoying many views and drove up to the top for more excellent photo opportunities. Along the road we spotted a bald eagle keeping watch. We stopped for a few minutes but then kept moving forward, for we still had not found our bull moose. We stopped by a waterfall, that required no hiking whatsoever. We then moved on to the trailhead for Fairy Falls.
We had no intention of hiking to the falls, we were there to capture the beautiful Grand Prismatic Springs. There is not an access to the springs from that trail. In fact there is a large parking area further up the road that allows you to walk all around the springs. Even though you are able to walk around the springs, you are unable to see all the different colors the spring produces, for you are too close to it. When you see photos of the springs, you are really seeing photos taken from high up - usually a helicopter. The only way to see the entire springs is to get above it. Well, we did not have a helicopter to take us above
and drones are not permitted (thankfully), so we had no choice but to hike to higher ground. I made this hike a few years ago - it was rather difficult then so I knew what to expect. So I took our hiking party to the magic spot for they too wanted to see the springs in the way that those highly paid photographers have been able to capture it.
When we reached the 'spot' we found that the park service had installed a few signs stating no access and put some debris around the beginning of the unofficial trailhead. Well that was a big disappointment. Since going up that mountain was the only reason we were on this trail, I was not about to let that ruin our plans. So we went on up the trail a bit, past the warning signs and began our accent to the top. Going up that mountain was no easy feat and took all the oxygen I had, but I made it. We were able to achieve our goal and not totally disobey the national park service warnings. The sad thing is that it was easier going up than down. After taking in
the view and of course many photos, we began our descent. Going down was a bit frightening. It was extremely steep and slippery. And going downhill is not my best ability. But I along with the rest of our crew made it down safely. We then hiked back to our truck and took a much needed break.
After resting a bit, we went back into town - West Yellowstone. We stopped for a late lunch and then visited many stores for a few souvenirs. We ended the day with a delicious ice cream and went back to our cabin. Even though we spent most of the day hunting, we never did find Bullwinkle. We couldn't even find Yogi or Boo-boo. It was still a good day and we were all exhausted.
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