Category: Yellowstone National Park

Reawakening on Mammoth’s Lower Terraces

Posted on by Joy

We have walked Mammoth’s Upper Terraces a few times, most recently about six weeks ago. The Upper Terraces is one of my favorite places. The rapid change of the hot springs and travertine formations they create, the peaceful nature of Upper Terraces Drive, and the views! However, I realized we have never walked the Lower Terraces. It is 6:30am and the sun has yet to rise above Mount Everts. Let’s enjoy the reawakening of Mound Spring in the cool of the morning and explore the ever-changing nature of Mammoth’s travertine terraces. It was only about four years ago that this spring came back to life reawakening beautiful Mound Terrace.

Mound Spring

Great views ahead . . .

Ride~About: Springtime at Yellowstone Lake

Posted on by Joy

Springtime in the Rockies leaves you guessing at the weather no matter what the  forecast. Springtime along Yellowstone Lake is no exception. Surrounded by huge mountains that can generate their own weather further complicates forecasting. Yellowstone Lake, the largest fresh water lake above 7,000 feet in North American, covers 136 square miles and the winds can really move along that flat surface.  Although we are starting our day with rain, some snow, a bit of ice called grapple, minimal wind thankfully, and seriously overcast skies, let’s remain hopeful.

We begin our trip at Fishing Bridge heading southeast 10 miles to Lake Butte Overlook. Let’s hope for brighter skies, maybe even some sun. On our way back we’ll be stopping along the northern shore of the lake to see what we will see. Always an adventure regardless of the weather, because my friends, there is never a bad day in Yellowstone!

Fishing Bridge

Let’s go . . .

ANOTHER, BETTER Five-Geyser Day

Posted on by Joy

Yellowstone started opening for the summer season on a staggered schedule  April 20.  We can only get to Mammoth, Norris, Canyon, and Old Faithful this first week in May, but before the crowds start, let’s enjoy the Old Faithful area. Although there are a lot less people, spring weather has been elusive. Today’s forecast predicts partly sunny skies, very light wind, and temps to about 50°, so it looks like a spring day. Let’s go see some geysers!

Even long-time visitors to the Old Faithful area head to the Visitor’s Center. At the Ranger’s Information Desk we’ll check the anticipated eruption times for the more predictable geysers and plan our walk around that schedule. Old Faithful is the most predictable geyser. Currently they say eruptions every 98 minutes +/- 10 minutes, but that can change. Surprise, you can watch Old Faithful anytime online. Let’s head to Geyser Hill for a different view of Old Faithful. We have about 20 minutes so let’s go!

Onward . . .

Mammoth Upper Terraces–What a Difference a Day Makes

Posted on by Joy

A winter morning on Mammoth Hot Springs’ Upper Terraces. Wow, what a difference a day hour makes! From blue skies to whiteout snow conditions in a matter of hours, but I always love the peace and beauty when walking the Upper Terraces. Let’s explore these amazing travertine terraces.

upper terraces

Come on along . . .