Tag: Yellowstone

Two Waterfalls, Two Miles–Glorious Yellowstone

Posted on by Joy

Here we are, only four miles from Mammoth Hot Springs and we have two waterfalls in two miles. Ah, Yellowstone, with magnificent, pounding waterfalls along the Yellowstone River and these smaller yet glorious falls so close to the road. These two falls, Undine and Wraith, come from creeks flowing from mountains to the west. Undine Falls drops Lava Creek which continues about a mile flowing into the Gardiner River. The Gardiner continues an additional five miles ending as it flows into the Yellowstone River. Driving from Mammoth we pull in the first large parking area on the left. Walking down about 8 steps then ahead about 20 steps and here we are. This is so easy everyone must stop and enjoy again and again!

Undine Falls

One more falls . . .

SNAP*Shot: Annual May Treat–Harlequin Ducks!

Posted on by Joy

Each Mother’s Day we head to Yellowstone to spend time with Harlequin Ducks. It is an overcast day, but no rain so all is well. These amazing diving ducks grace us by breeding in wild LeHardy Rapids of the Yellowstone River, one of only a few places they visit in the lower 48 states. We have talked of them before, so let’s just enjoy our time with them.

Harlequin Ducks

Living life in dangerous waters . . .

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 . . .