The morning brought hope of NO wind today. At least it was a possibility with the way the morning started.
The day also promised many new milestones to be met as well.
The morning got off to a good start with easy pedaling into West Yellowstone, MT. It was 24 miles but it went by fairly quickly. In “West”, i did a few errands like getting some food and checking the air in my tires. Then lunch.
After lunch, it was time to go into Yellowstone National Park.
There is a reason Yellowstone is the first National Park. It is full of wonderful things. I would not see the whole park since I have been here many times but I would stop at my favorite places though. But first, I met a milestone by leaving Montana and entered Wyoming. Leaving Montana is always bittersweet for me but the show must go on.
Now I had a minor dilemma. The first camp ground is at Madison Junction. That would only be a 38 mile day and seemed short. The next campground would not be until Grant Village and be a massive 75 mile day. I opted for the Grant Village camping.
First on my sight seeing agenda was the Grand Prismatic Spring.
The first people to ever see this must have been blown away. It seems to me that this could not really exist, yet it does right here in Yellowstone. Note: google it to see better aerial photos and you will see what I mean.
Next was the iconic Old Faithful geyser.
Now after 56 miles, I would have to head for Grant Village. And over the continental divide…… twice! And it was already 5:45 in the evening. I think it is going to be a long day.
After getting to Grant Village and getting my camp spot at 8:00, my day was still not done. I went to get some dinner at one of the village restaurants, then got a much needed shower and finally got back to my camp spot at 9:30.
It was a BIG day. A new daily mileage record, a new high elevation mark, a new NP, a new State, and crossed the continental divide for the 4th and 5th time. After two hard days, I was hoping for an easier day tomorrow.
Awesome Greg- like you I have great memories of Yellowstone. Awesome you got to see Old Faithful and its long period between eruptions and diminished flow, hope your wait was not too long. What is your perception of changes since you last visited Jellystone on your bike many many years ago?
Stay safe my friend!
Greg- Yellowstone is still great. There really is no place like it on earth. I think the level of tourist activity is reasonable. The shoulder is decent and the speed limit is 45 mph. You have to expect people to do stupid things and rightfully deserve the title of Tour-on by the locals and Park staff. As long as you accept that I think you can have a positive experience from both a car tourist and a bicycle perspective.
Lots of memories growing up and going to Yellowstone. I’m glad my dad liked camping and taking us to all the great national parks back in the day. I’ve missed your blog and look forward to the next!