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Upon waking this morning, I realized why the furnace was cycling all night. The temperature was a frigid 25 degrees. The good news, however, was the sky was a brilliant blue, which was a real treat, as they were predicting rain and mixed precip for today. I hope the weather man continues to be wrong, as they are predicting snow for the next two days.
After breakfast, we got underway at 8:00am. We headed north toward Canyon. Our plans required revision, as we learned that the road was closed, due to a water main break, just north of the Lower Falls. We took the side road over to Artist's Point, and after a short walk we were treated to the most incredible sight you can imagine. The area is know as the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and the name is very appropriate. The gorge is incredibly deep, with a vista of colors in the varied rock. The Yellowstone River thunders through this canyon with the most breathtaking water fall just upriver. I could never tire of looking at this sight.
We then headed back to the south and stopped at a few Thermal mud ponds and volcanic steam vents
along the way. The many buffalo living in the area tend to congregate around these areas, as they are able to stay warm in the frigid temperatures.
Leaving the Eastern section of the park, we meandered our way around the southern section, passed Lake, West Thumb, and numerous thermal attractions, and arrived at the Old Faithful lodge. This building is incredible. It was constructed between 1903 and 1904, using locally obtained materials, including lodge pole pine and rhyolite stone. When it first opened, it boasted electric lights and steam heat. It is the largest log hotel in the world, and was designed by a 29 year old architect. The main lobby is open to the roof, 92 feet high. The massive stone fireplace in the center of the lobby is 19 feet across. The rear of the inn has a spectacular view of the Old Faithful geyser. Truly a remarkable place.
After leaving the Inn, we proceed to Madison, and exited out the West Gate to West Yellowstone, and our destination for the next couple of days. The Grizzly RV park is a real treat, friendly and efficient staff, immaculate facilities and full hookups. I took care of
some laundry, and then we walked downtown to see what was going on, and to pick up a few things at the grocery store. After checking the menus at a few restaurants, we settled on one for an "Eat out night" tomorrow.
When we returned to the RV park, we found our friends from Cedar Hammock had just arrived. Had everyone over for cocktails and munchies, and really enjoyed their company.
We had supper in tonight to the sound of rain pelting the roof of the RV. They're still saying snow tomorrow. Hoping they are wrong.
Miles - 100
Total miles - 1140
Animal sightings - Too many buffalo to count, 1 coyote, 1 rabbit and numerous ducks and swans.
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Gary Salisbury
non-member comment
Confused
There are only the two couples of you caravaning, but yet you keep meeting along the way people from Cedar Hammock. Are they following you in cars or what?